A seven-time Ohio Prep Sportswriters Association writer of the year, Blackledge spent the final 34 years of a four-decade career as the chief prep beat writer for the Columbus Dispatch. A Delaware, Ohio native, Blackledge graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1982 with degrees in journalism and communications. He served as sports editor of the Wilmington News-Journal for three-plus years. He also worked at the Lake County Telegraph and the Delaware Gazette. In addition to the prep beat, Blackledge has covered the Browns, Indians, Reds, Bengals, Columbus Crew and various Ohio State sports.
On the heels of an unbeaten Division III state football championship, Watterson’s basketball team – despite a late start as a unit – may also have the tools for a deep tournament run. Columbus, OH – After capturing the Division III state championship with a perfect 16-0 record, seven members of Watterson’s football team took
Buoyed by a stingy defense allowing just 34 points per game, Upper Arlington ran its record to 10-1 and sent out a message that it is a legitimate contender for a deep tournament run in March. Upper Arlington, OH – Senior tri-captain Lucy Martin was dead serious when she estimated that the Upper Arlington girls
It’s not even Christmas yet, but 4-0 Hillard Darby already equaled its win total for all of last season and has set its sights on capturing its first OCC title since 2008. Hilliard, OH – By Division I and Ohio Capital Conference standards, the Hilliard Darby boys basketball team is on the small side and
Devin Brown totaled 27 points, grabbed eight rebounds and handed out six assists for Olentangy Orange, which has lofty expectations after two regional final runs. A narrow win over Coffman, however, showed the Pioneers that they still have work to do. Dublin, OH – The message from coaches to players typically rings loud and clear:
