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Geauga County Maple Leaf

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

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Berkshire High School

Badgers Reload, Moving in Right Direction By Rich Kelly sports@karlovecmedia.com

Josh DeWeese 14th season (64-72): A history teacher at the high school, DeWeese is a 1996 Berkshire graduate. DeWeese is the only football coach to win a playoff game in Berkshire history.

2026 Schedule Aug. 21 @Harvey Aug. 28 Cuyahoga Hts. Sept. 4 @Cardinal Sept. 11 @Conneaut Sept. 18 Crestwood Sept. 25 @Fairview Oct. 2 Rootstown* Oct. 9 Chagrin Falls Oct. 16 Trinity Oct. 23 @Kirtland * Homecoming

All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

Coming off a solid 6-5 season, the Berkshire Badgers, in early practices and scrimmages, have given players and coaches alike reason to smile and feel comfortable, especially Head Coach Josh DeWeese. They're reassured despite the fact that several key players have fallen away on a roster that isn't as large as most of the other schools in the area. "We lost some very good players from last year's team," Coach DeWeese said at a recent practice. "We have some good returning players in the line, but also have to consider that we lost half of our interior linemen on both sides of the ball. I was a little concerned heading into this season, but this group of younger players has really stepped up with hard work and effort to show me there is good reason to, again, feel good about our upcoming season." Replacing players like Danny Tiller, Sam Barcikoski and Sam Bable, to name just a few, won't be easy. But the Badgers are fortunate to have some solid core players who have risen to the challenge of growing up fast, bringing positive attitudes with them — a great foundation on which to build a team. Versatility has been a hallmark of senior Oliver Miller's entire career. Definitely not going to be called a baby bull, he has put his speed and athletic abilities to good

use in past seasons. This year, Miller will be under center to direct the offense, regularly giving all opponents plenty to think about. "We lost some really good seniors from last year," he reiterated. "The younger kids really put in some hard work in the offseason, though, and are stepping up in a hurry. “We have a great freshman class, too, that is stepping up well. We've got some tough games, for sure. We open against Harvey, Cuyahoga Heights is always a tough game, and then we finish with Kirtland. We battled hard with them last year until late in the game, so that gives us a positive feeling to build on now." Senior Anthony Walker is not your typical interior lineman in size, but his confidence is growing quickly thanks to a strong work ethic. "I really like how we have made adjustments already, especially with the younger kids," Walker said. "We have a great freshman class this year, we're off to a good start building the team, and one of the big advantages I like, in how we are starting the season this year, is that the younger kids are getting a lot more reps in practice before they need to get really serious about playing in games. That will help them learn our system much better, and it's also going to be a big help in getting rid of the jitters that young players get when they are starting out in varsity sports." The Badgers are not loaded with se-

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Team Profile

Players to Watch

Nickname: Badgers Colors: Purple & Gold Home: Great Lakes Cheese Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division

Walker

Rice

niors, so underclassmen will definitely need to step up and strive to meet these expectations. Coach DeWeese, entering his 14th year at the helm, would recall this also being the case in past seasons. Junior Vance Rice is one of the juniors looking to make his mark. He will be at running back and defensive back, and sees good things ahead for the team. "I'm feeling pretty good about what our team has gotten done so far," he said. "Our lines have been good in opening holes so far, our defense has been good, and the defensive lines have closed holes in a hurry in scrimmages. Chase has been a beast at end, and the good freshman class we have is learning quickly about how to play." Junior Chase Bajzel does not have the prototypical physical stature of a lineman. Just a tad smaller than last year's Tiller, however, Bajzel is quick and strong. "I was able to start my sophomore year in the line as a JV player,” he said. "I thought maybe we might be in for a rough time when we started this season, but the team has meshed very well in a hurry. “Our tackles on offense have done a great job protecting the quarterback, the

Miller

Bajzel

centers have made great snaps so far, the guards are quick and really pulling fast to get outside, so I see good things for our team again this year." No doubt Bajzel will be a foundation piece from his offensive guard spot and at defensive end. No, this year's Berkshire Badgers are not very big. But despite their youth, as is usually the case in the CVC, the team will once again be on the hunt for a division title and playoff spot. That's been a tradition Coach DeWeese and his staff have built over 14 seasons. Best not expect it to change. Over the years, the Berkshire program has been a solid part of a very tough Chagrin Valley Conference. That should be the case again this season, as Kirtland is on the Badger schedule, and you know other teams, like Perry, Harvey, Cuyahoga Heights, and Crestwood, to name just a few, make conference action interesting for football fans. The Badgers, even as one of the smaller schools in the conference, will still contend for a division title and playoff spot, by putting forth a huge effort every Friday night. This season will be no different.

OHSAA: Div. V, Region 17 Playoff History: 1975, 1981, 1983, 2015, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 (1-10) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 180 2025 Season: 6-5 Coaches: Ron Brown (Def. Coordinator), Gordon Cossick (Off. Coordinator), Jason Heiden, Jack Arnold, Aaron Rataj, Joe Shumar, Chris Soltis Trainer: UH Hospitals Roster: 38 total (11 seniors, 8 juniors, 10 sophomores, 9 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @BHSBadgerDen Cheerleaders: Lexie Hosmer (captain), Stella Hoskin (captain), Bella Bryndal, Rebecca Kimpton, Gizelth Zamora, Peyton Sisco, Julianna Leagan, Gabriella Guarnera, Mia Czuprun, Maya Mendolera, Grace Vulinec, Aubrey MacDonald, Claire Wilson, Emiley Nyzen, Elaina Brown, Grace Tiller, Evalena Tishko, Chelsea Jones

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Cardinal High School

A New Era Dawns in Huskies Country By Haley Adams sports@karlovecmedia.com

Doug Velasquez 1st season: Velasquez was the head coach at Lowellville High School from 2016 to 2020, where the team went from 0-9 to 6-4 by the time he left for Columbiana. Velasquez was an award-winning linebacker at Boardman High School, graduating in 1989. He will serve as Cardinal Schools Dean of Students.

2026 Schedule Aug. 20 @LaBrae Aug. 28 Champion Sept. 4 Berkshire Sept. 11 @Leetonia Sept. 18 CCC Sept. 25 @Wellington Oct. 2 Mathews* Oct. 8 Grand Valley Oct. 16 @Py Valley Oct. 23 @St. John * Homecoming

All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

For the third time in three years, there’s a new coach at the helm of the Cardinal football team. Doug Velasquez was approved as the Huskies’ new head coach on Jan. 29. Velasquez previously worked as an intervention specialist at Columbiana Exempted Schools. His most recent football coaching stint, at Lowellville High School, was from 2016 to 2019. The Rockets finished 0-9 in Velasquez’s first season, but bounced back the following year to finish 6-4, giving Lowellville its first winning season since 2013. Now the Huskies hope Coach Velasquez can work that same magic in Huskie Country, as the team has finished 1-19 over the last two seasons. “I really wanted the opportunity to further my career as an administrator and use my experience as a coach to give the kids that are playing and who are putting the effort and time out there ... a memorable experience,” he said. “I’ve had experience in the past of rebuilding programs, and most times I enjoy doing that.” Beginning Aug. 1, Velasquez will also serve as the Jr./Sr. High School Dean of Students. But recruitment began long be-

fore the first day of practice. Coach Velasquez made it a point to catch basketball games and supervise lifting, simply watching and talking with the kids, beginning to get to know them and to build relationships. That effort seemed to go a long way, as the Huskies have 34 students on the roster. If all goes well, the team may even have a few JV games on its schedule. Cardinal returns six starters from a season ago and 10 letter-winners. One of those starters is senior Dominic Harris, who made an impact on his coach from day one. Harris played a little bit of everything last year and played through some tough injuries as well. “Since January, he’s been my right-hand man,” said his coach. “If I need something to happen with the team, I get him involved.” “Meeting Coach V during the school year really made it better when transitioning into a new season,” Harris said. “I think he has been a really good motivator for our team.” Another returning starter is center Axle Young, a three-sport athlete who is eager to show the community a totally different team from last year. Two things the Huskies have talked a lot about are playing competitively and giving back to the community. “Our opponents should expect a way

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Team Profile

Players to Watch

Nickname: Huskies Colors: Red, White & Black Home: Richard A. Moss Field Conference: Northeastern Athletic Conference OHSAA: Div. VII, Region 25

Harris

Meadows

more competitive game,” Young said. “They should fear us, and they shouldn’t take it as an automatic win.” Young, who started every game last season, is quiet with a great work ethic, Coach Velasquez said. The coach and his staff also hope to give back to the community by bringing home a playoff game. For that to happen, the Huskies must play competitively and physically. After watching the team through camp and recent scrimmages, coaches discussed how to prepare the Huskies to be more physical and ready for Week 1 against LaBrae. “You have to be here, and you have to commit,” Coach Velasquez said, “and you have to buy in and trust the process. At the end of the day today, I want us to come off the field and I want people to know that we are physical.” Returning starter Austin Meadows is also quiet, but leads by example, Coach Velasquez said. He will be another athlete on the line, alongside Young. “We’re trying to get the team to focus and give more effort, and motivate the underclassmen by running on and off the field instead of walking,” Meadows said. “The

Young

Page

transition from middle to high school can be a lot harder and faster.” Brayden Page is another returner who saw a lot of playing time at wide receiver a season ago and looks to improve his numbers. “Brayden is an athlete who is there every day and who will ask questions,” Coach Velasquez said. “He’s very coachable, along with a lot of other players. “All of our kids are good kids,” he added, “and a lot of them are really starting to step up and do the job that needs to be done.” A new face showing great promise for Cardinal is senior Colton Smith, who met some of his future teammates when he joined track and field. “Despite him being new to the team and new to the school, he has developed as a player that you know you can count on — that when you put him into the game, he’s going to go hard, and he’s emerging as a leader,” Coach Velasquez said. With new leadership, renewed commitment, and a team ready to buy in, this season could mark the turning of a page and beginning of a more competitive era for the Cardinal Huskies.

Playoff History: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 (1-4) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 57 2025 Season: 0-10 Coaches: Ryan Hollesh, Guy Layfield, Kyle Deckerd, A.J. Stallsmith, Michael Zemerick Trainer: UH Hospitals Roster: 34 total (8 seniors, 2 juniors, 9 sophomores, 15 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @cardinalhuskies, Cardinal Athletic Boosters on FB Cheerleaders: Ava Almy, Nikya Barbee, Elli Dubasik, Elizabeth Fay, Allison Fisher, Laynie Gates, Riley Gates, Cloe Kudera, Allison Wojtasik, Khloe Wojtasik

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Chagrin Falls High School

Built in the Trenches: Team Leans on Veteran Offensive Line By Jason Baxter sports@karlovecmedia.com

John Scott 6th season (21-30): A social studies teacher at the high school and middle school, Scott is a Solon graduate and was a 22-year assistant before taking the helm. Scott last made the playoffs with the Tigers in 2024.

2026 Schedule

Aug. 21 @Jefferson Aug. 28 Orange Sept. 4 West Geauga Sept. 10 @Fairview Sept. 18 Rootstown* Sept. 25 Kirtland Oct. 2 @Brooklyn Oct. 9 @Berkshire Oct. 16 @Conneaut Oct. 23 Crestwood (7:30 p.m.) * Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

After returning to the postseason in 2024 with a 6-4 record and regional playoff appearance, the 2025 Tigers were riddled with injuries and an inexperienced offensive line. Chagrin Falls enters the 2026 season with a playoff berth at the top of its mind. Even further, a goal among the seniors is to host a playoff game. The Tigers last hosted a playoff game during the chaos of the 2020 season, and before that, in 2013. “Obviously, our number one goal is to host a playoff game,” Head Coach John Scott said. “We want to be here in Week 11, and it’s going to take health. We’re not a very deep team. We have good numbers, but they’re spaced out across the grades, so our varsity depth is not great.” Now in his sixth season leading the Tigers, Scott pointed to his team's chemistry as a key strength. “It’s recognizing some of the faults of the team from before and trying to learn from those mistakes and identify them,” he said. “What does this group want, and what do they envision their senior year to look like?” Scott added: “It’s just that ‘we’ mentality. It’s ‘we over me.’ You’ve got to practice what you preach, and they’re doing a really good job of it. I’m very proud of them.” Helping the chemistry for the Tigers will be 13 seniors, many of whom contributed as juniors. According to one of those seniors, offensive lineman Noah Schaefer,

this group became close far before they stepped into high school. “We spend all the time in the world off the field,” he said. “We have been doing that since we were 7 or 8 years old, (and) it just has allowed us to create a real special bond. It has carried on through high school.” What was a major question mark a year ago has become one of the Tigers' biggest reasons for optimism: the offensive line. The Tigers return four starters up front, giving the offense one of its strongest foundations in recent years. Chagrin Falls enters the season with a veteran group capable of controlling the line of scrimmage. “Last year, the offensive line was our weakness because we were throwing guys in there, and we don’t have the biggest kids at Chagrin Falls. That’s just the nature of the beast,” Coach Scott said. “(This year) we’re going to have 200-pound offensive linemen, while other teams are going to have 230- or 240-pound guys, so we’re going to have to play together and be sound.” While last season may have been rough, offensive players also got the experience they needed, he added: “They understand the expectations and, conceptually, how they have to play together. It’s not just about what my block does. It’s about my block, the guy next to me, and where I need to go next. “This group is doing a really good job of just doing what they’re coached to do. The chemistry is great, and they love playing with each other. We have five seniors on the line, along with a couple of juniors and a freshman

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Players to Watch Team Profile Nickname: Tigers Colors: Orange & Black Home: C.S. Harris Stadium

Kaas

Martin

Staples

Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division

McClintock

OHSAA: Div. V, Region 17 center who even got some time tonight. The seniors have really embraced the younger guys, and that allows them to understand that they can make mistakes. They talk through it and keep moving forward.” Having nearly the entire offensive front back also creates opportunities for skill-position players to develop behind an experienced unit. Seniors Schaefer, Leo Calabrese, Zach Kaseler, Nico Cottone and JJ Babic will lead the way up front. Look for junior Henry Horvath and sophomore Jack Bundy to add depth. Kaseler agreed with the growth of the offensive line, saying, “With the experience we got, having a year under our belt, it allows us to play faster and more violent than we were able to last year.” That offensive experience and edge is a welcome sight for junior Max Frankel, who returns at quarterback after starting the final five games of the 2025 season due to an injury. He finished the season with 598 passing yards. Look for seniors Jake McClintock, Cody Staples and Will Flannery to handle the bulk of the carries for the Tigers in the spread offense. Junior Dylan Hoopingarner will contribute in the backfield. Senior Ash Martin is expected to make

a major contribution at tight end, along with junior William McMullen. Senior Brady Kaas is the leading returning receiver with 26 receptions and 231 yards. The Tigers defense is led by a strong group of senior linebackers in McClintock, Staples and Martin, as well as Hoopingarner. The defensive line will see several players going both ways; look for Calabrese, Kaseler, McMullen and Horvath to contribute, along with Mikey Agnello. The 6-0, 235-pound junior will also get carries at fullback after standing out in a recent scrimmage against Cuyahoga Heights, making him an underclassman to keep an eye on. The secondary will be led by Kaas, who earned All-Ohio honors last season, Flannery, senior Will Murray, and juniors Sam Butler and Dylan Pribanic. On special teams, the Tigers will have a new kicker in senior Ben Ettinger, a member of the boys soccer program. Senior Robbie Quinn will return to handle punting duties. If the Tigers can capitalize on their experience in the trenches and continue the steady progress made under Scott, Chagrin Falls has the pieces in place to once again challenge for a playoff berth and make noise in the Chagrin Valley Conference.

Good Luck to all Geauga Football Teams! Publishers of Geauga County Maple Leaf | Kirtland Chronicle Middlefield Post | Chesterland News | Geauga NOW! Geauga Business Family Album | Geauga Amish Business Directory

Playoff History: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2020, 2024 (19-13) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 184 2025 Season: 3-7 Coaches: Ken McClintock, Adam Lesko, Zack Lesko, Wally Sonnie, Tommy Murtaugh, Kevin Owen, James Sferra, Zach Farmer, T.J. Florkiewicz Trainer: Evan Schlanser Roster: 50 total (13 seniors, 14 juniors, 10 sophomores, 13 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @FootballChagrin Cheerleaders: Anthony Lauer, Bethany Vehar, Jenny Opoku, Milena Venture, Lyla Mihalek, Zadie Stepnowsky, Paige Morrison, KellyAnne Mooney, Julia Meikle, Layla Camposo, Sammie Benzel, Mallory Coble

Sports Editor: Jamie Ward Contributors: Haley Adams, Jason Baxter, Rich Kelly, Alan Kornspan, Cameron Palmer Editor: John D. Karlovec Publisher: Jeffrey B. Karlovec Finance: Jack Karlovec Advertising: Clay Karlovec, Clinton Sestak Production Manager: Pam Molnar Graphic Designer: Karen Kaplan Paginator: Emma McGuire

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Chardon High School

Chardon Begins New Era in Chagrin Valley Conference By Jason Baxter sports@karlovecmedia.com

Brian Landies 2nd season (6-5): A 2002 Chardon graduate, Landies served as a defensive assistant coach for 14 seasons before taking the reins last season. The Landies family is a fixture in the Chardon community.

2026 Schedule Aug. 20 Massillon Jackson Aug. 28 Cleveland Hts. Sept. 4 @Erie McDowell Sept. 11 @Madison Sept. 18 North* Sept. 25 @South Oct. 2 @Lutheran West Oct. 9 @Perry Oct. 16 Lakeside Oct. 23 Harvey * Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

Brian Landies enters his second season leading the Chardon Hilltoppers, who are looking to build on a 6-5 campaign that ended with an early playoff exit. Four of Chardon’s five losses last season came against teams that advanced to the postseason, providing valuable experience for a program facing a challenging road in one of Ohio’s toughest regions. With a new era beginning in the Chagrin Valley Conference, the Hilltoppers enter the season with a clear goal: return to the playoffs and make a deeper postseason run. This offseason, the team has adopted the word “valiant” as a battle cry during summer preparation. The term was inspired by a motivational talk from Coach Landies’ mother, who has battled cancer for the past six years. She spoke about the meaning of the word “valiant” and its connection to an army of one. The Hilltoppers will be led by junior quarterback Andrew Cole, who burst onto the scene last year and directed the vaunted Wing-T offense as a sophomore. He passed for over 500 yards and rushed for 600 yards. Coach Landies was complimentary of Cole’s ability to manage the offense. “It’s a wordy offense, and Andrew has no problem with it,” he said. “He handles it. He knows the offense, and he’s getting better. There are things he has to improve on, but from a leadership standpoint and physically, he has grown up.” Senior Drew Platz (over 500 yards) will

shoulder the bulk of the carries at fullback. “He’s a big physical kid, he’s got light feet in the hole, and he’s got great vision,” said his coach. “He's tough to bring down and you see that. You know, he's got a good stiff arm.” Senior Rocco Tarantino will lead the way in the backfield. Seniors Jack Weaver, Ivan Chuha, Ryan Kolcum, junior Liam Park and sophomore Rocco Frisco will all contribute. Tarantino spoke highly of the running back room, particularly its depth, size and speed. “AC (Cole), he’s a great leader for us, even as a junior. He’s a great quarterback and a great leader,” Tarantino said. One notable offseason move that has the coaching staff excited is senior Aiden Hardesty’s shift from the offensive line to tight end. Junior Cooper Borden has been a welcome addition at receiver and defensive back. He caught the eye of the coaching staff after posting all-time top 10 times during track season in the 100 (11.1), 200 (22.66) and 400 (51.6) as a sophomore. The offensive line shows promise, but several position battles remain. Seniors Brennin Poole and Andrew Wolenski both return, along with junior Stephen Andrews. Poole and Andrews are two-year starters. Landies explained the importance of Poole at center. “Coach (Mark) McNellie says he’ll fight a Tiger, that’s what he says about him. He’s our center. He’s 180 pounds, but he’ll go toe-to-toe with anyone.” Juniors Bronx Rideout and Tyler Korenke,

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Players to Watch

Team Profile Nickname: Hilltoppers Colors: Red & Black Home: Chardon Memorial Field Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference Lake Division

Kolcum

Tarantino

as well as sophomore Brian Panko, will also compete for spots along the offensive front. Landies highlighted Panko as an underclassman to watch after his offseason dedication resulted in major growth. On Panko, Coach Landies said, “(Brian) Panko’s a guard. I think he was 165 pounds as a freshman last year. He’s 215 right now. I mean, he lived in the weight room all offseason, so he’s doing a great job and just getting better. So, the sky’s the limit for him.” Defensively, the Hilltoppers are learning on the fly. “I was looking at it today, and I think Drew, Chuha and Tarantino were the only guys who saw playing time last year. “I felt like guys were growing up a little bit as the scrimmage went on. You’re going to get knocked down. That’s going to happen from time to time. They were beating our faces in for a little bit, but then we responded. We got up and kept fighting. I thought that was positive.” Platz returns as an All-Ohio linebacker and will lead the defense. He finished the 2025 season with 100 tackles, including 62 solo stops, and 14.5 tackles for loss. At linebacker, look for Chuha, Kolcum, Weaver and Rylan Miller to complement Platz and provide support as the Hilltoppers

Platz

Chuha

develop a young and inexperienced defense. “You never know when it could be your final snap, so we’re going to play physical and fast to the ball. You never know when it’s your last snap,” Kolcum said. Senior Collin Cole and junior Matthew Medved will look to cause headaches for opposing offenses from the defensive end positions. Hardesty and Andrews also return after contributing along the defensive line last season. Look for juniors Nathan Stonis and Zachary Rosipko, along with sophomore Danny Painter, to add depth to the position. Coach Landies acknowledged the secondary is still taking shape. Tarantino returns, but the rest of the group remains unformed. Look for seniors Camron Campbell, Braedan Schultz, junior Luis Medina, Frisco and freshman Lincoln Elig to add depth to the secondary. Junior Jordan Higham will handle kicking duties for the Hilltoppers. He will look to build on a strong sophomore season and continue Chardon’s legacy of strong kickers. The Hilltoppers will look to turn their traditional offseason preparation and refreshed motivation into the 23rd playoff appearance in school history, and a deeper postseason run this time around.

OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1987, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 (47-22) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 331 2025 Season: 6-5 Coaches: Bob Conroy, Joe Cyvas, Bob Francis, Ian Landies, Marty Mackar, Mark McNellie, Rick Mysyk, Mark Percassi, Scott Platz, Rob Vujaklija, Brett Weidig Trainer: Emily Sonnie Roster: 66 total (15 seniors, 22 juniors, 10 sophomores, 19 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: $100 Follow the Team: @topperfb, @toppernation Cheerleaders: Izzy Burke, Audrey Adler, Angelina Colombi, Liz Mach, Phoebe Auth, Grace Lesiak, Haylee Fay, Ailena Stockton, Addison Borden, Adriana Tritto, Faith Francis, Delanie Stonis, Nina Giannetti, Claire Simmons, Annalise Wroblewski

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Hawken High School

Hawks Eye Playoff Victory in November By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com

Mark Iammarino 5th season (30-14): Iammarino has made the playoffs each season since taking over the Hawks in 2022. Iammarino spent 26 seasons with Chagrin Falls, including 10 playoff appearances and two state championships. He won 185 games as the Tigers’ all-time winningest coach.

2026 Schedule Aug. 21 Clev. Cent. Cath. Aug. 28 @Lutheran West Sept. 4 Gilmour Sept. 10 West Geauga Sept. 18 @Perry Sept. 25 @Orange Oct. 2 Edgewood* Oct. 9 @Jefferson Oct. 16 Geneva Oct. 23 North * Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

The Hawken Hawks football team will look to continue its excellent play under Head Coach Mark Iammarino, starting his fifth season at the helm. At Hawken, Coach Iammarino has continued to produce winning teams. In the past four seasons, the Hawks have gone 30-14 under his leadership, finishing 8-3 in 2022, 6-5 in 2023 and 8-3 in both 2024 and 2025. As the Hawks head into the 2026 season, their main goal is to play into November and win a playoff game. To keep the Hawks focused on this goal, their motto is “Team, CVC, November.” Standout wide receiver and senior captain Charlie Mallett said that “Team” focuses the Hawks on the offseason, when they develop the important chemistry necessary for success. The CVC component emphasizes playing strong during the regular-season conference schedule. The third part of the motto, “November,” reminds the players to focus on performing well in the OHSAA playoffs. “November, the playoffs are something we take seriously,” Mallett said. “We're not just there to be there, we actually want to win some games. We've had three winning seasons, three playoff berths, two home games the last two years. That's been really nice for us. Something I haven't been able to do is win a playoff game.” To earn their first playoff victory under Iammarino, the Hawks will rely on quarterback Tanner Brandt, who takes over for

Donovan Moorhead, now at Jacksonville State University. The high-scoring Hawks offense returns several top players, giving Brandt a talented group of targets. Hawks receivers include seniors Charlie Mallett, Mitch Greenberg, Jordan Black and Brady Wise and juniors Kevin Oster, Alex Laschinger and Lewi Walter. Mallett, who will be a four-year starter, has been stellar in his first three years. For his career, Mallett has caught 199 passes for 2,700 yards and 41 touchdowns. In fact, in 2025, he had 104 receptions for 1,158 yards and 16 touchdowns. In addition to Mallett, Oster averaged 12.9 yards per catch while accumulating 323 yards and three touchdowns. Greenberg caught 27 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns. “Our receivers are the strength of the team, with Charlie, Kevin and Mitch, and Lewi (Walter) and Brady (Wise), coming on board,” Coach Iammarino said. In addition to an excellent group of receivers, Brandt will have a veteran group of offensive linemen to protect him when he drops back to pass. At center, leading the offensive line will be senior captain Miles Hamilton (5-11, 195 lbs.). The guards will be juniors Rocco Vitantonio (6-1, 275), and Leroy Scales (60, 315). At tackle will be Zack Mangini (6-2, 260) and Erik Pishchik (6-2, 190). A key to success for the line will be its continued focus on conditioning, as the offensive linemen will also be on the defensive side of the ball.

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Players to Watch

Greenberg

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Mallett

The offensive line will focus on giving junior Tanner Brandt (6-0, 180 lbs.) time to throw while opening holes for running backs Patrick Murphy (5-11, 165) and Kingston Caldwell (5-11, 190). In their first scrimmage against the Grand Valley Mustangs on Aug. 7, Coach Iammarino was happy with how Brandt, Caldwell and Murphy played. “I think Tanner did a great job in his first live scrimmage,” Coach Iammarino said. “He commanded the huddle. He made sure everyone was in the right spot. He made the right throws that he needed to. Very happy with scrimmage one for him. I thought our two backs (Murphy and Caldwell) ran hard; they're brand new as well.” Although a main strength of the Hawks offense is passing, Coach Iammarino said establishing the running game will also be a point of emphasis. “We'll throw it around a bunch, but I think it's important for us that we establish a running game,” he said. “We had Kene Obi (now at Vanderbilt University) in the backfield last year and he was a force. (This season) I think Patrick (Murphy) adds the speed element, and I think Kingston Caldwell is pretty shifty and he makes good moves in the hole. And so hopefully the

Team Profile

Hamilton

Mangini

combination of those two guys will provide what we need in the backfield.” With a strong offense capable of scoring a lot of points, the Hawks will also have an excellent defense to stop their opponents. On the line they'll have Mangini, Scales and Vitantonio. Coach Iammarino said the defensive line played well in its first scrimmage against the Mustangs. “Up front, I think we got the best of them,” Coach Iammarino said. “The only runs we gave up were maybe when they bounced it outside and maybe we lost leverage a little bit.” Hawken's linebackers will be Caldwell, Hamilton, Pishchik and Will Smith (5-10”, 190 lbs.). In the defensive secondary, the Hawks will have Mallett and Wise at cornerback and Greenberg and Murphy as safeties. “Our secondary is pretty veteran; I like what they're doing,” Coach Iammarino said. Kicking for the Hawks will be senior Joey Skoczen. Punting will be Brandt. “We work really hard (on special teams) and are continuing to work on our coverage and our return units,” said the coach. With a talented group of upperclassmen returning, look for the Hawks to have success and play well in November.

Nickname: Hawks Colors: Red & Gray Home: Walton Stadium Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference Chagrin Division OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2012, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 (10-15) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 266 2025 Season: 8-3 Coaches: Dominic Petrella (Off. Coordinator), John Kramer (Def. Coordinator), Dan Walton, Jeff Thomas, Marwin Walling, Tommy Iammarino Trainer: Sarah Royan Roster: 33 total (9 seniors, 10 juniors, 1 sophomore, 13 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @HawkenAthletics

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Page 19

OHSAA Sanctions Girls Flag Football As 29th Recognized Sport Staff Report Girls flag football will become a fully sanctioned high school sport in Ohio beginning with the 2026-27 school year, following a unanimous vote of the Ohio High School Athletic Association Board of Directors at its June meeting. The sport becomes the OHSAA’s 29th recognized sport — 15 for girls and 14 for boys. Ohio joins 22 other state high school associations that sanction girls flag football, while 40 states offer girls high school football programs. The sport also will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. “The OHSAA is so proud to welcome girls flag football to our family,” OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute said. “Flag football has grown so rapidly and will continue to do so. The Browns, Bengals and NFL put in so much work to promote the game and bring us to this moment to welcome girls flag football to the OHSAA.”

The sport’s growth in Ohio has been swift. Three years ago, 20 schools statewide fielded teams. This past spring, that number had climbed to 162. The push began in 2021 with the creation of the first girls high school flag football division in Northeast Ohio, and the OHSAA has met with the state’s flag football leaders for several years. Girls flag football also is included in the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association. In May, the OHSAA partnered with the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals and the Pro Football Hall of Fame to conduct a high school state tournament event, won by Macedonia Nordonia. “The Bengals are proud to support girls flag football and celebrate this historic milestone, which will help pave the way for the sport’s continued growth and success,” Bengals Vice President Elizabeth Blackburn said. “Full sanctioning is a

testament to the dedication of many advocates who helped make it possible, including the Ohio High School Athletic Association, athletic directors, players, coaches and referees. The rapid expansion of flag football across Ohio reflects the passion, talent and commitment young women have for the game.” Cleveland Browns Managing and Principal Partners Dee and Jimmy Haslam called the decision a tremendous milestone for student-athletes across the state. “At the Cleveland Browns, we believe in creating more opportunities for young athletes to learn, compete and grow through the game of football, and this decision marks just the beginning of that journey for many young women across Ohio,” the Haslams said. “We’re proud to support the continued growth of girls flag football and look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on schools, communities and the next generation of players.”

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Kenston High School

Bombers Enter New Conference, Aim to Stay Consistent By Cameron Palmer sports@karlovecmedia.com

Jeff Grubich 15th season (102-54): A health and physical education teacher at the high school, Grubich is the all time winningest Kenston football coach. The Bombers won a state title under Grubich in 2018.

2026 Schedule

Aug. 21 @Solon Aug. 28 Perry Sept. 4 @NDCL Sept. 10 Copley Sept. 18 @Brecksville-Broadview Sept. 25 @Twinsburg Oct. 2 Aurora Oct. 9 Mayfield* Oct. 16 @Revere Oct. 23 Barberton *Homecoming All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

After finishing 7-5 and reaching the second round of the playoffs last season, the Kenston Bombers look to carry that standard into a new challenge: the Suburban League. The move brings unfamiliar opponents, something Head Coach Jeff Grubich and his players have embraced. “I think we're excited about the opportunity to maybe start some new rivalries and play some teams that we really don't know anything about,” Coach Grubich said. “It's something that's unknown, but at the same time, our kids are excited for that opportunity.” While opponents will look different, Kenston will have plenty of familiar faces on the field. Will Hamm, Tucker Meeks, Brody Sell, Jake Rostocil and Kahlil Hinton are among returning players, while Teo Triscaro is back at outside linebacker after receiving considerable playing time as a freshman. Many were forced into significant roles last season when injuries tested Kenston's depth. The team used multiple quarterbacks and made adjustments throughout the lineup. Coach Grubich hopes that experience will pay off. “Injuries are part of football, and I believe our football program as a whole was able to weather it pretty well,” he said. “It's a credit to our coaching staff and our kids. With that mentality of the next man up, you just got to keep fighting and keep battling. “We feel like if our young guys can stay healthy and continue to progress, we could

be a pretty good football team down the road. But we got a lot of work to do. It's August still, so who knows?” Last year's Bombers also learned the importance of approaching every opponent with the same mentality. Meeks remembers one game in particular in which Kenston learned the consequences of overlooking an opponent. “We went in cocky, and they just punched us in the mouth immediately,” Meeks said. “I don't think we can let that happen this year.” The lesson changed Kenston's approach in practice and helped spark wins over Mayfield and Riverside. “Every week after that, we practiced so much harder,” Meeks said. “The two weeks after that, we played Mayfield and Riverside, and those were definitely our two best games. We were underdogs in both of them, and we just played our best football of the year.” Meeks believes the Bombers' veterans are making sure that lesson carries into 2026. “I think it's a big leadership thing,” Meeks said. “Every practice, we've got our main guys pushing everyone to work as hard as possible.” That leadership has been important to Coach Grubich. “I think the best thing our seniors and our captains are doing is teaching our kids, especially the young kids, to enjoy the process,” he said. “Football's a tough game. It's a Saturday through Thursday deal. Saturday's film, Sunday's scouting report, Monday's back to work on the practice field.”

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Players to Watch

DiFrancesco

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Dzurilla

As a senior offensive and defensive lineman, Sell is one of those veterans setting the tone. “My experience playing, I'm able to notice things that kids that haven't been playing as long don't notice,” he said. “I'm a physical player. I like to get in the trenches, be a little dirty, and I think that carries along with everybody else around me. When they see me going hard, they're just gonna amp themselves up just as much as I am.” Kenston's experience extends into the backfield, where Hamm enters his senior season ready for a larger role after learning behind two 1,000-yard rushers. Hamm played alongside current Akron running back Sean Patrick early in his career before learning from Cohen Clark. “Having guys like that is great because you get to learn from them,” Hamm said. “You get to learn what they do well and what they don't do well, too. I've learned a bunch from Cohen and Sean, and I've been implementing all that into my game and seeing what I can do better for my senior year.” On the outside, Hinton gives the Bombers a tall, athletic target at wide receiver. The junior, who has been working his way back from previous injuries, spent part of his offseason training with former

Team Profile

Keenan

Vecchio

Kenston receiver Tymir Cardona, now at Bethany College. “We've been working on footwork, hands and releases,” Hinton said of his time with Cardona. “I really learned a lot from him, and I plan to use those techniques going forward.” Hinton also wants to provide more than just another option in the passing game. “I'm going to bring energy, bring the juice, make sure everybody's all right, just pick them up and get them ready for the teams we face,” he said. Despite its new conference, Kenston's expectations haven't changed. “Obviously every team wants to be their conference champ. Every team wants to make the playoffs,” Grubich said. “For us, I think the seniors have said it best: just continue to get 1 percent better every single day.” That consistency has defined Grubich's tenure at Kenston and led to a milestone season in 2025, when he became the winningest football coach in program history. “To even be mentioned with Zin Gorby or any of the previous Kenston head coaches here, it’s an honor,” he said. “I’m blessed with these kids and this coaching staff. That’s where the credit belongs: The kids and the coaches over the last 15 years have been outstanding.”

Nickname: Bombers Colors: Blue & White Home: Bombers Stadium Conference: Suburban League American Conference OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9 Playoff History: 1981, 1986, 1995, 1997, 2000, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 (19-16) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 293 2025 Season: 7-5 Coaches: Joe Brahler, Steve Teringo, Bob Ross, Pat Conochan, Fred Lockinour, Bransen Stanley, Levi Newell, J.J. Laseak, Will Bush, Thomas Grenier Trainer: Viviani Deubel Student Trainers: Ireland Eliazo, Abby Fink, Madi Gambatesa, Lily Harris, Trinity Osterman, Gabby Quintana, Quinn Robertson, Piper Robertson, Kylie Schneider, Daphne Uhlir Roster: 45 total (8 seniors, 11 juniors, 15 sophomores, 11 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @Bomber_Football Cheerleaders: Gabby Agresta, Gianna Becker, Zoe Calvello, Anna Cieslak, Emily Collins, Eva Domonkos, Abbi Felton, Sedona Gordon, Lola Keschl, Elizabeth (Libby) Kramer, Sofia Macias, Juliet Matsko, Collette McIvor, Elizabeth (Liz) Miller, Madison Minich, Eva Ringness, Evelyn Sanovich, Alison Schmidt, Nadia Silla, Alayna Taylor, Lyla Taylor, Carley Timmons

Page 22

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Browse and Order Prints & Gifts of your favorite athletes from around the county!

Get digital, prints, posters, cards, mugs, mouse pads, magnets & more! Thousands of sports photos back to 2009. Hundreds added every week.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School

Lions Look to Leave Legacy “Brick by Brick” By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com

Sam Vander Ven 1st season: Vander Ven looks to guide the Lions back to the OHSAA playoffs in his first year as head coach. After beginning his career as a student assistant coach at Ohio University, Vander Ven coached at Athens High School and then joined the Lions coaching staff in 2020. Currently, Vander Ven teaches in the NDCL Social Studies Department.

2026 Schedule

Aug. 21 @Struthers Aug. 28 West Geauga Sept. 4 Kenston Sept. 11 @Benedictine Sept. 18 @Bedford Sept. 24 @Holy Name Oct. 2 @Padua Oct. 9 CVCA Oct. 16 Elyria Catholic* Oct. 23 Lake Catholic *Homecoming

All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

The NDCL Lions had an excellent 2025 season as they went 8-4 and played into Week 12 after a 35-13 OHSAA playoff victory over the Hubbard Eagles. With last year's head coach, Andre Griffin, now leading the Shaker Raiders, Lions offensive coordinator Sam Vander Ven was promoted to head coach during the offseason. Having started his coaching career as a student coach at Ohio University, Vander Ven coached one year at Athens High School before joining the NDCL football staff in 2020. At NDCL, Coach Vander Ven spent four years as the quarterbacks coach. The past two seasons, he's served as offensive coordinator. Coming off a successful 2025 season, this year's seniors want to leave a legacy. “Coach Vander Ven, he let the seniors choose what we wanted to live by this summer,” senior quarterback Brady Capel said. “We chose the word legacy. That's something we want to leave on this program, leave for the years to come. And we want to do something that this program has never done.” Added senior Carmen Cirino, “The seniors really harped on leaving a legacy this year. (They're) just really pumped about having a great year, really trying to set some records: most points scored, most games won. (We want) to leave all these really great things — just leave our legacy here.”

To leave a legacy, Coach Vander Ven encourages his athletes to focus on building a successful team “brick by brick.” “Every player on this team is needed to uphold a high standard of success, and that has to do with accountability and a strong culture that doesn't break,” Coach Vander Ven said. For the Lions, that process will start with a strong group of returning upperclassmen, including eight All-North Coast Conference (NCC) selections. “We pride ourselves on really being balanced,” said the coach. “We spread them out; we got a lot of playmakers outside, and we got a nice stable of running backs that can bring it up the middle.” Leading the Lions' balanced offense will be senior quarterback Brady Capel. Capel had an excellent junior season as he received first-team North Coast Conference and All-Northeast Lakes District honors. In 2025, Capel completed 58 percent of his passes for 1,321 yards and 18 touchdowns. He was also NDCL's leading rusher, gaining 559 yards and rushing for six touchdowns. “Capel was a 12-game starter last year,” Coach Vander Ven said. “He looked awesome this offseason, with another year under his belt. It's been great.” Added Capel, “I'm super excited. We got a lot of returning guys. All our skill guys are pretty much returning, so I am excited to get them the ball and see what they can do with it and hopefully have a good long run this year.”

Thursday, August 20, 2026

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Players to Watch

Team Profile Nickname: Lions Colors: Blue & Gold Home: Lion Stadium-Lozick Field Conference: North Coast Conference OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13

Capel

Berschig

Cirino

One of the top receivers returning for Capel to target is senior Casey McKinnerney. An NCC All-Conference selection, McKinnerney led the Lions with 33 receptions for 388 yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed for 39 yards and two touchdowns. “We want to get the ball to everyone,” McKinnerney said. “We have 10 receivers, I think, that can play at the varsity level, and we want to get everyone in and everyone getting reps because the more versatile you can be as a team, the more dangerous you are going to be.” Added his coach, “We got some really big returning wide receivers back. With Casey McKinnerney, we were able to do everything with him last year. Blake Dumermuth is another really good wide receiver we have. Then we have another guy, Robby Lipowski — he is going to be able to do anything for us.” To help with the balanced offensive rushing attack, the Lions have Braeden Ryan and Joey Velotta at running back. Their coach calls them “a nice combo.” At tight end, the Lions have Drake Berschig, Brendan Burtch and Wes Jacobson. On the offensive line, the Lions replace four starters from last year. The only returning starter on the offensive line is Nick

ck this Se

Barros, who was all-conference and all-district last season. “We're (adding) some guys and we're going to turn some of our one-way defensive guys into two-way players,” Coach Vander Ven said. “A couple guys to look out for (on the offensive line) are Jackson Kovacs at center and Tyler Gasperi (left tackle).” The Lions also return plenty of experience on defense, with nine of 11 starters back. “Carmen Cirino is an awesome center fielder that runs the free safety,” Coach Vander Ven said. “We got two safeties that can come down and really make some hits with Lipowski.” Austin Otero will also start at safety. At cornerback, the Lions return McKinnerney and Dumermuth. Dumermuth led the Lions last season with three interceptions and also broke up four passes. NDCL returns all three starting linebackers: Berschig, Velotta and Ryan. On the defensive line, the Lions return two starters in Joey Penny and Carmen Chiappero. And on special teams, senior long snapper Collin O'Brien returns. He recently competed at the Kohl's Snapping national showcase in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

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Playoff History: 2003, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2021, 2024, 2025 (6-12) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 257 2025 Season: 8-4 Coaches: Dan Kaczmarek (def. Coordinator), Christopher Kovacs, Jeffrey Banker, Eddie Daugherty, Rich Velotta, Nick Fitzgerald, Brendan Sweeney, Spencer Jacobson, Dominick Roberts , Will Eppich, Clay Anderson Roster: 59 total (19 seniors, 13 juniors, 19 sophomores, 8 freshmen) Trainer: Mitch Geddis Pay to Play Fee: None Follow the Team: @ndclathletics Cheerleaders: Addie Howell, AnnMarie Morgan, Brooke Barna, Carmen Del Valle, Claire Huster, Claudia DiGeronimo, Lexie Suppes, Mady Reynoso, Marissa Principe, Natalie Ziemnik, Presley Engoglia, Samm Nass, Sophia Augusta, Vivian Bakos

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, August 20, 2026

West Geauga High School

Wolverines Eyeing Playoff Repeat Behind Defense By Cameron Palmer sports@karlovecmedia.com

Rossi Santo 2nd season: An assistant at Kirtland who spent five seasons under legendary Coach Tiger LaVerde, Santo was an All-Ohio defensive back at Kirtland. Santo also coached at Riverside under Dave Bors for four seasons. Santo is an Intervention Specialist at West Geauga High School.

2026 Schedule Aug. 21 Fairview Aug. 28 @NDCL Sept. 4 @Chagrin Falls Sept. 10 @Hawken Sept. 18 Orange Sept. 25 @Edgewood Oct. 2 Jefferson* Oct. 9 Geneva Oct. 16 Harvey Oct. 23 @Perry * Homecoming

All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

The Wolverines enter 2026 with a different set of expectations, fresh off a 6-5 season and playoff appearance in Rossi Santo’s first year leading the program. Making the postseason is no longer simply a goal. West Geauga wants it to become the norm. “Last year, new coach, but we had great players last year,” said linebacker Anthony Dzurilla. “Getting to the playoffs, I think that should be a standard here now, especially with new coaches and everything. I think we should make the playoffs every year and keep going as far as we can, because I think last year set a bar — make the playoffs, at least.” Doing this will require a much different group to emerge. West Geauga graduated 25 seniors from last year's team and returns just one starter on offense and four on defense. That leaves openings throughout the lineup and a need for new players to take ownership of the program. “The biggest thing is our leadership,” Coach Santo said. “We had really good senior leaders last year, and we need leaders this year. That's our biggest question mark. We have a whole new offensive line, and we're going to have new quarterbacks. … There's question marks all over the place.” While this year's offense will feature plenty of new faces, the Wolverines believe their defense can provide stability early in the season.

Dzurilla and Johnny Becley provide experience at linebacker, while Roger Steffens returns at defensive tackle and Joey DiFrancesco gives West Geauga another piece along the defensive line. Luca Veverka also adds athleticism at linebacker. "We have a talented group of skill guys on our team," Coach Santo said. "We have a lot of fast linebackers, too. I consider our linebackers to be skilled guys as well. Our running back-linebacker position has a lot of depth, and it's probably our strength of the team this year." That speed has already stood out to DiFrancesco. The sophomore defensive lineman believes the combination of West Geauga's defensive line and linebackers can become one of his team's biggest strengths. “We're a lot more experienced (on defense) this year,” DiFrancesco said. “We got a lot of returning guys, so we're a lot quicker. Our D-line, we're playing with speed. We have a lot of fast guys who can all just shoot gaps, make plays and wreak havoc. We do a great job of opening up gaps for our linebackers.” DiFrancesco has also seen the defense begin to come together as one unit during the preseason. “We preach 11 hats to the ball,” DiFrancesco said. “We do that almost every single play. In the scrimmages, we're all flying everywhere, making plays in the backfield, getting tackles for a loss. If we can start creating those turnovers, we're going to be a pretty good defense.” West G's defense could become especially important as the Wolverines develop

Thursday, August 20, 2026

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Players to Watch

Team Profile Nickname: Wolverines Colors: Blue & White Home: Howell Stadium

Hinton

Hamm

Meeks

Luck this Se f o a

team’s bell cow, this year's offense will feature more variety in its ballcarriers. Vincent Vecchio will be among those options. Vecchio can contribute at receiver and running back offensively while also lining up at cornerback or safety. His focus entering the season is less about where he plays and more about filling whatever role is needed. “I want to do whatever is best for the team,” Vecchio said, “so if Coach Santo needs me to run the ball, help out the receivers, I'll step up for it. Especially defensively, too.” Tight ends Mateo DeNegris and Landon Wulfert, a senior and junior, respectively, give the Wolverines additional options offensively as Coach Santo works to find the right combination around Keenan. Of course, with so many new pieces, West Geauga may look different early in the season than it will later. But those expectations created during Santo's first season aren't going anywhere. "These guys want to compete for a CVC championship with Perry, and they want to make it to Week 12 or Week 13," the coach said. "Those are goals that you can get or not get, but I think the biggest thing is, are we getting stronger throughout the year, and are we getting better as a team, too?"

an offense with new starters at several key positions. The team will feature a new-look offensive line while maintaining the veteran presence of returning right tackle Roger Steffens to help provide stability up front. Behind that line, Mickey Keenan is preparing to take over at quarterback. He understands what his coach needs from him. “The main thing is winning games, right? Like, that's my job,” Keenan said. “I have to make sure everything's smooth, everything's under control, and just win. Use my legs when I have to, and keep everyone calm.” Despite the turnover, West Geauga's coaching staff believes it has enough athletes at skill positions to identify new quarterback options. Keenan expects the offense to feature several players capable of carrying the football and believes that versatility could make the Wolverines difficult to defend. “It's just gonna be a lot more diverse,” Keenan said. “I think it's gonna be a lot harder to guard. We have tons of dudes that can run the ball. We have really good blockers, as well.” After 2025 graduate Miles Baker broke the West Geauga rushing record as the

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Sell

Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference Chagrin Division OHSAA: Div. IV, Region 13 Playoff History: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2020, 2021, 2025 (3-11) OHSAA Football Tournament Enrollment: 240 2025 Season: 6-5 Coaches: Dylan Aquila, Aaron Perusek, Eric Stendalen, Nick Stazzone, Andrew Keller, Will Lopatta, Jacob McDonald, John Tropf, Ray Santo, Zach Santo, Kyle Majewski, Tori Stazzone, Brad Thompson Trainer: Samantha Adkins Roster: 67 total (7 seniors, 20 juniors, 17 sophomores, 23 freshmen) Pay to Play Fee: $195 Follow the Team: @ WestGAthletics Cheerleaders: Gabriella Gideon (captain), Taylor Kuhn (captain), Sabrina Betances (captain), Alana Rogaski, Kennedy Demetro, Josie Snyder, Marley Bulzan, Brianna Farmer, Lyla Mobasseri, Skylir Sullivan, Sophia Gideon, Olivia Cline, Milania Platia, Hazel Bupp

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Good, Old-Fashioned Amish Cooking Serving your favorites Monday thru Saturday from 6:00am to 8:00pm

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