Tag Archive for: High School Football

DRAGONS NEW ERA TO BEGIN WITH COACH TERRENCE HENTON

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Ashtabula, OH- The Lakeside Dragons have proudly unveiled Terrence Henton as their new head football coach, a homegrown talent with a deep connection to the Ashtabula Area City School District. Graduating in 1993, Henton’s journey from a standout running back to a mentor and coach exemplifies his commitment to the community and the sport he loves.

Henton’s football legacy began with the Ashtabula Panthers, a team that later merged with the Harbor Mariners to create the formidable Lakeside Dragons. His exceptional talents and unwavering work ethic earned him a spot with the renowned Ashland Eagles, a top-tier Division 2 football program. Transitioning to wide receiver in college, Henton maximized his speed and athleticism, showcasing his versatility on the field.

The coaching trajectory in Henton’s career took flight in 2004 when he joined Lakeside as a track coach. His passion for developing young talent became evident in 2007 when he stepped into the realm of youth football coaching, leaving an indelible mark on many of the area’s best high school players.

In 2017, Henton embraced the challenge of coaching high school players as a WR/DB. His coaching acumen flourished further when he assumed the role of Lakeside junior high head football coach for two seasons starting in 2019. A pivotal moment in Henton’s coaching journey unfolded in 2022 when he joined forces with Olajuwon Cooper, Head Football Coach of the Edgewood Warriors, as Offensive Coordinator. Together, they orchestrated one of the most prolific and record-breaking offenses in Ashtabula County history, guiding Tony Hall to become the all-time leader in both single-season and career touchdowns and passing yards.

Beyond the local arena, Henton has dedicated the past four years to coaching at the Nike Elite 11 QB camps, honing the skills of some of the nation’s most promising players and programs.

Henton’s decision to stay close to home and contribute to the community that shaped him is rooted in deep pride. “IM FROM BULA!! they wrote a song about it!!! I rep Ashtabula everywhere I go. I’m not from Cleveland or Youngstown!!! IM FROM BULA!!” he declares passionately, reflecting on the cherished memories of his upbringing, from the scent of popcorn and pizza to purchasing game tickets at Betty’s beauty shop.

Coaching, for Henton, is not just a job; it’s a calling. His ability to form lasting relationships with his players is a testament to his genuine desire to positively impact the lives of youth through sport. When asked about his coaching philosophy, Henton fervently states, “I coach because of the coaches I had!! My youth coach Gary Butte took me in like a son… Roby Potts is the Nick Saban/Kirby Smart in my life.”

Acknowledging the accomplishments of his predecessor, Coach Buzz Edwards, Henton expresses deep respect for the transformative work done in turning the Lakeside Dragons’ program around. “Buzz doesn’t get enough credit for what he has done,” affirms Henton. “He will always be one of the smartest football guys in my phone!! I told him I will keep picking his brain until he says get away.”

In addition to his gratitude towards Edwards, Henton commends Edgewood’s head football coach Olajuwon Cooper and Athletic Director Steve Kray. The opportunity and trust bestowed upon him to lead the youth at Edgewood High School are sources of everlasting gratitude for Henton.

Terrence Henton is a man deeply invested in the area, the students, and the future success of the Lakeside Dragons football program. His commitment, passion, and genuine care for the community set the stage for an exciting new chapter in the Dragons’ football journey.

PAVLANSKY TO STEP DOWN AFTER 23 YEARS AT CANFIELD

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CANFIELD OH- Canfield’s Coach Mike Pavlansky gathered his team and coaches together this morning to announce his decision to step down as the CARDINALS’ head football coach. He will remain in an advisory capacity as a search for his successor gets underway in the immediate future and the team begins its out-of-season conditioning and strength program.

Coach Pavlansky was a head coach for 28 years (2 @ Lisbon, 3 @ Meter and 23 @ Canfield).

His teams’ accomplishments include:

  • League Champions in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2015 & 2017
  • Made Play-offs: 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021,

2022 & 2023

  • State Champions 2022 (14 – 1)
  • State Runner Up 2005 (14 – 1)
  • Regional finalist 2017, 2018, 2020

Respectfully,

Greg Cooper, RAA

Canfield AD

(330) 533-5341, ext. 1

KNIGHTS FINAL PUSH FALLS SHORT IN STATE TITLE

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By Ty Bartell 

CANTON OH- In what was the most anticipated high school football matchup in the state of Ohio, The Archbishop Hoban Knights went to battle against The Massillon-Washington Tigers in a game with the highest stakes, The Division II State Championship trophy with the game being played in the historic Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. With just under 15,000 people in attendance, the city of Canton was packed with diehards from both fan bases that were ready to see the game of the year,

Defense took center-stage as expected with both teams allowing just a hair over 7 points a game against them this season. The first quarter was scoreless for both sides, as Hoban was able to drive into Tiger territory with their opening drive being a fumble lost to Massillon occurred. The Tigers would then take the ball into Knights territory and subsequently be denied, turning the ball over on downs. With the score 0-0 it looked like a scoreless half was in the making, until a blocked punt by The Tigers gave Massillon the ball with excellent field position, on Hoban’s side of the field to start. The Knights would shoot themselves in the foot on the drive as well, with a 4th and 10 facemask by The Knights defense to give Massilon a fresh set of downs and the eventual score by Mylen Lenix with 6 minutes left in the first half.

Hoban looked like they would be turned away on the scoreboard entirely until Ryan Burns and The Knights special teams unit pinned Massillon back deep at their own half-yard line. Hoban’s defense would force another safety on the season, this time by Tanner Mintz and Deon Rodgers getting on the scoreboard but still trailing The Tigers 7-2 at halftime.

Remember how we said defense took center-stage? The second half was a defense-exclusive battle with both teams going scoreless in the third. The fourth quarter was trending that way until The Knight had the ball in Tiger territory in the waning moments of the ballgame. However, a 4th and 10 pass to the endzone that was not to be, sealed the drive and the game 7-2, giving Massillon their first State Championship in 53 years, their first of the playoff era and their 25th overall!

Game Photos can be found HERE https://ysn.smugmug.com/11-30-fb-hoban-massilion/11-30-fb-hoban-massilion/102EOS1D/

KNIGHTS REFUSE TO BE DENIED A TRIP BACK TO CANTON

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By Ty Bartell

PARMA OH- In 2017 The Archbishop Hoban Knights football team moved up from Division 3 to Division 2. In the six seasons prior to this once, since 2017, The Knights have met The Avon Eagles in the playoffs on four different occasions, besting The Eagles in all four of those meetings. However, each game Avon has gotten closer and closer to finally getting over the hump. On Friday night, those two teams would renew their playoff rivalry with their fifth meeting in seven years at Byers Field in Parma, Ohio.

The stage was set and the two squads were ready as they would ever be, coming in as two of the top defenses in the state. With Hoban allowing just a bit over 7 points a game and Avon allowing a hair over 9 points a game. Defense was the focal point as both squads pitched a shutout in the first quarter with some key stops. Scoreless heading to the second quarter, The Eagles would strike first when Blake Elder laser beamed a dime to Matt Maxey from 17 yards out to open up the scoring for Avon. Owen Warrick’s kick was good, making the score 7-0 in favor of The Eagles. Defense would set the tone the rest of the first half until the final two minutes when Hoban was able to get into field goal range for Jeremy Hammel to boot a 24-yard attempt through the uprights, trimming The Knights deficit to four going into halftime.

The Knights would be denied any points on the opening possession of the second half and Avon would respond with a big run by Jakorion Caffey to get them in the red zone before Caffey would cap off the drive with a touchdown run from 6 yards out, effectively making it 14-3 Avon! Things were looking cloudy for The Knights, needing a response and needing it quickly, well, X was gonna give it to ya! Hoban put together a nice third quarter drive, highlighted by a big strike by Xavier Williams with a 39-yard touchdown run to put The Knight back within four at a 14-10 Eagles lead heading into the final quarter.

With Avon in the midst of a drive to end the third quarter, they opened up the fourth with the ball. That is when the Hoban defense, which had not created a turnover to that point, got a big time interception from Elbert Hill to give The Knight the ball back. Hoban put together another effective drive, getting it to the goal line and finishing it out with a touchdown run from Caleb Jones 2 yards out! The extra point from Hammel just hooked inside the left upright to make it 17-14 Hoban, late in the fourth quarter. The Eagles would have an opportunity to have the final drive which they were able to get into a long field goal try; however, the attempt would fall short by a few yards to seal the game 17-14 in favor of Hoban in the closest game between these two teams yet! Xavier Williams, one of the Players of the Game, finished the night with 99 yards on 8 carries and a touchdown. Find his interview, as well as interviews with Elbert Hill and Coach Tim Tyrrell can be found below!

The win for The Knights (13-1) gets them on the doorstep of completing the comeback from the last season as they will square-off with longtime rival, The Massillon-Washington Tigers (15-0). These two teams have been on a collision course all season long and the most anticipated matchup in Ohio high school football is now slated for Thursday, November 30th at 7 p.m. at the historic Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium with The Division 2 State Championship on the line!

KNIGHTS MARCH ON BACK TO FINAL FOUR

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AKRON OH- Hoban showcased their dominance in the Regional Finals, securing a convincing 30-6 victory over Walsh Jesuit and advancing to the State Semifinals.

The first quarter remained scoreless, setting the stage for a second-quarter surge. Xavier Williams ignited the scoring with a 22-yard TD run, putting Hoban up 7-0. “Juice” Tylan Boykin then took the spotlight with a spectacular 74-yard QB TD run, extending the lead to 14-0 just 0:11 before halftime.

The momentum carried into the third quarter as Williams added a 49-yard TD run, pushing the score to 21-0 in favor of Hoban. The Hoban defense joined the scoring party in the fourth quarter, earning a safety for a commanding 23-0 lead. “Juice” Boykin sealed the deal with a 1-yard TD run, and with Jeremy Hammel’s successful extra points, Hoban closed the game at 30-0.

Key players contributed significantly to Hoban’s success, with Caleb Jones leading the ground attack with 113 yards on 17 carries. On the defensive end, Tysen Campbell, Jordan Pritchard-Sewell, and Tanner Mintz made crucial plays, showcasing Hoban’s well-rounded performance.

With this dominant display, Hoban marches on to the State Semifinals, leaving Walsh Jesuit with a 30-6 defeat.

STRUTHERS CANT FIGHT PAST CANTON SOUTH

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TALLMADGE OH- In the Regional Finals clash, Struthers’ postseason journey met its end with a 35-13 loss to Canton South.

The first quarter set the tone as Rome Cox’s 1-yard run put Canton South ahead 7-0.

Canton South extended their lead in the second quarter with Cox’s 1-yard run and a successful 8-yard pass from Pugh, making it 14-0. Struthers fought back with Devin Braham’s 1-yard run, closing the gap to 14-7. However, Canton South responded with a 2-yard pass from Poochie Snyder to Luke Johnson, ending the half 21-7.

In the third quarter, Canton South continued their dominance with Snyder connecting with Tre Wilson for a 44-yard pass, extending the lead to 28-7. Struthers showed resilience with AC Carter’s impressive 54-yard run, though the PAT was unsuccessful, making it 28-13. Nevertheless, Canton South sealed the victory with Snyder’s 19-yard pass to Tavon Castle, concluding the game at 35-13.

With this result, Canton South advances to the State Semifinals, while Struthers bows out of the postseason.

HILLTOPPERS GROUND GAME TOO MUCH FOR IRISH

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Ravenna, OH- In a highly anticipated matchup between 2 powerhouse programs, the Ursuline Fighting Irish faced off against the Chardon Hilltoppers in a Division 3 matchup that ultimately ended in a 31-14 victory for Chardon.

The first quarter set the tone as Vinny Columbi’s 5-yard touchdown run capped a 70-yard drive, putting Chardon ahead 7-0. Ursuline quickly responded with Joe Balog’s 5-yard TD run, tying the game at 7-7 with 2:42 left in the quarter.

Chardon seized an opportunity in the second quarter, recovering a fumble at Ursuline’s 24-yard line. AJ Bruce’s 13-yard carry set up Vinny Columbi’s 1-yard TD run, giving Chardon a 14-7 lead at halftime.

The third quarter saw Chardon extend their lead with Sam Sacerich’s 27-yard field goal, making it 17-7. However, Ursuline fought back, with Jack Ericson connecting with DC Ferrell on a 13-yard TD pass to narrow the gap to 17-14.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, Chardon continued to press their advantage. Caleb Hewitt’s 34-yard TD run extended their lead to 24-14. Ursuline, facing a crucial drive from their own 35, stalled at the Chardon 38, turning the ball over on downs with 9:45 remaining.

Chardon capitalized on the opportunity, as AJ Bruce’s 13-yard TD run sealed the victory with a final score of 31-14. Ursuline’s attempt to mount a comeback ended with a sack of Ericson on 4th down at the Chardon 33, sealing their fate.

With this loss, the Ursuline Fighting Irish concluded their season with a record of 13-1, while the Chardon Hilltoppers (11-3) advanced to the Division 3 state semi-final against the Toledo Central Catholic Fighting Irish in week 14.

IRISH PULL OFF ANOTHER CLOSE CALL

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By Tim Corso


ALLIANCE OH-  Ursuline held off a late comeback attempt from Villa Angela-St. Joseph Friday night 27-20.

Going into the Regional Semifinal matchup from Marlington, the talk from the Irish sideline was the absence of Senior tailback Christian Lynch.

It was a highly anticipated second matchup between Lynch and Vikings’ standout back, Bo Jackson.

The first meeting in Week 8 didn’t disappoint as each back found the endzone in Ursuline’s 38-18 win.

However, it was Joe Balog that stepped into the starting role alongside Jack Ericson, and he didn’t disappoint.

Balog put the lone first half points on the board from 14 yards out to give Ursuline the lead 6-0 early.

He accumulated nearly 150 yards on the ground to lead the Irish backfield.

The third quarter was the one that determined this game in the end.

Coach Reardon’s squad posted three touchdowns, including a school record, 98-yard touchdown from pass from Ericson to Devonte Taylor.

Ericson also tossed a score to John Frangos, while Ty’ReqDonlow ran in the final score from 11 yards out.

The biggest threat to the 27-0 lead that Ursuline held in the fourth was Kylan Steuball and the Vikings.

Steuball led not one, not two, but three fourth quarter scoring drives to nearly bring Villa all the way back to tie the game. That included a 99-yard touchdown pass to Brian Kortovich.

The story in the key moments was the Irish stout defense. Both Balog and Jy’Quise Liason picked off the Villa signal caller.

At that point, the Villa comeback attempt was too little, too late.

The last gasp of hope was following the third Viking touchdown, when Ursuline’s offense was in 4th and 1 in opponent’s territory.

With the game on the line, Ericson decided to call his own number and ran for the first down to ice the game.

From that point, they ran the clock out and advanced to the Regional Final.

Ursuline (13-0) will play Chardon (10-3) for a Regional Championship next Friday, November 17th at a site TBD.

KNIGHTS USE DEFENSE TO SECURE SEMIFINAL WIN

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TWINSBURG OH- In a dominant defensive showcase, the Hoban Knights secured a spot in the Regional Finals with an impressive 21-0 victory over Riverside.

The first quarter saw Hoban’s defense making a significant impact as Tanner Mintz intercepted, returning the ball for a 25-yard TD. Jeremy Hammel’s successful extra point gave Hoban an early 7-0 lead. The Knights continued to showcase their offensive prowess as Caleb Jones powered through with a 1-yard TD run, extending their lead to 14-0 after Hammel’s extra point.

The second quarter remained scoreless, a testament to Hoban’s defensive resilience.

In the third quarter, Caleb Jones once again proved instrumental, scoring an 8-yard TD run at 21-0 following Jeremy Hammel’s successful extra point.

The fourth quarter maintained Hoban’s defensive stronghold, preventing Riverside from putting points on the board. The game concluded with a resounding shutout, securing Hoban’s place in the Regional Finals with a final score of 21-0.

Caleb Jones emerged as a key player, contributing significantly on both sides of the ball. On offense, he carried the ball 21 times, covering 102 yards and scoring 2 TDs. His defensive prowess was equally noteworthy, highlighted by a crucial interception.

Hoban’s performance showcased the strength of their defense and the effectiveness of their offensive game, earning them a well-deserved victory and a ticket to the Regional Finals with a commanding 21-0 win over Riverside.

LAST SECOND SCORE ADVANCES STRUTHERS

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BERKSHIRE OH- In a thrilling showdown, Struthers secured a dramatic victory with a last-second touchdown, edging past Mentor Lake Catholic 28-25.

The opening quarter set the tone as AC Carter powered through with a 6-yard run at 3:45, putting Struthers ahead 7-0.

Lake Catholic responded in the second quarter, with Harley Forkins nailing a 27-yard field goal at 8:42, narrowing the lead to 7-3. However, AC Carter extended Struthers’ advantage with an 8-yard run at 2:52, making it 14-3. Lake Catholic fought back with Frankie Trinetti connecting with Patrick Radigan for a 10-yard TD pass at 0:47. The successful 2-point conversion closed the gap to 14-11.

The third quarter saw AC Carter continuing his impressive performance, scoring an 8-yard run at 6:41, bringing the score to 21-11. Lake Catholic responded once again, with Frankie Trinetti connecting with Ace Peterlin for a 22-yard TD pass at 3:30, making it 21-18.

In a seesaw battle, the fourth quarter saw Lake Catholic taking the lead with Josh Styles running for a 7-yard TD at 6:38, putting them ahead 25-21. However, Struthers staged a stunning comeback with just 10 seconds left in the game. Jason Dukes connected with Robert Carcelli for a 9-yard TD pass, securing a nail-biting 28-25 victory for Struthers.

In a game filled with twists and turns, Struthers showcased resilience and determination, ultimately pulling off a memorable win in the final moments. The scoreboard reflected the intensity of the contest, with Struthers emerging triumphant with a final score of 28-25 over Mentor Lake Catholic.