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.
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Saturday, 21 October 2023 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

Gahanna Tops Pick North 35-28 in 2 OTs In Battle Of Unbeatens

Diore Hubbard rushed for 267 yards and a pair of TDs and Gahanna made two massive defensive stands to rally past Pickerington North in an OCC Ohio Division showdown of state-ranked unbeaten teams. Steve Blackledge writes the OCC for Saturday's Press Pros.
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Saturday, 14 October 2023 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

UA Defense Dominates Again In 21-3 Win Over Coffman

A pick-six from Mac Igoe, a blocked punt, a punishing running attack led by Connor McClellan and a relentless swarming defense paved the way for fast-starting Upper Arlington in its OCC Central win at rival Dublin Coffman.
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Saturday, 07 October 2023 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

UA Defense Saves The Day In 10-0 Shutout Of Orange

Led by Quinn Crotty's two interceptions, Upper Arlington came up with a brilliant game plan to stymie Olentangy Orange dual threat quarterback Levi Davis. Columnist Steve Blackledge writes for Press Pros.
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Saturday, 30 September 2023 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

Fleharty Puts On A Show For Bradley In Rout Of Davidson

Hilliard Bradley quarterback Bradyn Fleharty had a marvelous game, passing for 318 yards and four touchdowns and rushing for 88 more as the Jaguars dominated cross-town rival Davidson to run their record to 7-0.
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Saturday, 23 September 2023 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

Berlin Bears Down, Knocks Off Unbeaten Olentangy 27-20

Two huge special teams plays by Alejandro Aguilar, a solid defensive performance and clutch play from quarterback Harrison Brewster helped Olentangy Berlin notch its second straight upset of an unbeaten, state-ranked team. Read about the game in Saturday's Press Pros.