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.
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:
Olentangy Liberty's defense turned in a brilliant performance to stymie high-powered Cincinnati Moeller, led by Mr. Football Matt Ponatoski, and the Patriots key offensive stars – quarterback Andrew Leonard, running back/receiver Jake Struck and receiver Christian Moulton – all delivered in the Patriots' dominant win. Read Steve Blackledge......
With 21 points in a stunning 53-second span late in the second quarter, Watterson turned a tight game into a rout. The 15-0 Eagles earned a chance avenge a state title game defeat to Toledo Central Catholic in 2023. Ashville, OH – The adjective “crazy” was used about a dozen times by players and coaches