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.
Avatar photo
Thursday, 22 December 2022 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

Darby Slays Demons With 56-53 Upset of Bradley

Bradley’s Cade Norris found room on this drive, but Darby made it tough on him and Bradley in ending a long losing streak against their cross-town rival. Steve Blackledge has the story. (PressPros Feature Photo by John Hulkenberg).
Avatar photo
Friday, 16 December 2022 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

Blackledge: Liberty Hits On All Cylinders In Rout Of Bradley

Despite returning only starter from last season, Olentangy Liberty showed its depth, balance, chemistry and mettle in a convincing win over Hilliard Bradley in a battle of Ohio Capital Conference Central Division frontrunners. Steve Blackledge writes the story for Friday's Press Pros.
Avatar photo
Friday, 09 December 2022 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features

Rejuvenated Berlin Makes Statement Vs. Darby

Olentangy Berlin’s Aidan Ackermann drives to the basket against Hilliard Darby’s Cam Gilkerson in a victory the Bears took control of down the stretch to raise hopes for a landmark season ahead. (PressPros Feature Photo by John Hulkenberg).
Avatar photo
Sunday, 04 December 2022 / Published in Features

Glenville Controls Wyoming, Claims Elusive Title

With running back D’Shawntae Jones piling up 195 yards and scoring three touchdowns, Cleveland Glenville overpowered Cincinnati Wyoming’s ballyhooed defense for a 26-6 win in the Division IV championship game. Canton, OH – They did it for former program greats such as Ted Ginn Jr.,Troy Smith, Donte Whitner, Cardale Jones, Christian Bryant, Cobe Bryant, Bryant
Avatar photo
Friday, 02 December 2022 / Published in Central Ohio, Central Ohio Feature, Features, Home Features

Bloom-Carroll Can’t Get Untracked, Falls to Canfield

Dual-threat Indiana-bound quarterback Broc Lowry (12) accounted for five touchdowns as Canfield used its speed and unpredictability to trump Bloom-Carroll's power-based run game and take home its first title.