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, 06 March 2021 / Published in Central Ohio, Features, Home Features

Worthington Christian Leaves No Doubt, Wins District Over Harvest Prep

Worthington Christian man-handles Harvest Prep to avenge a stinging blow from last year...and move on in the Division IV boys tournament.
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Thursday, 04 March 2021 / Published in Central Ohio, Features, Home Features

Blackledge: Bradley Takes District Win Over Westerville South

A close encounter throughout, Hilliard Bradley uses 10-0 run to gain advantage, win over Westerville South for a Division I district semi-final win. Steve Blackledge writes for Press Pros.
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Saturday, 27 February 2021 / Published in Central Ohio, Features, Home Features

Coffman Claims Div. I District, Trips Marysville, 37-28

Dublin Coffman rolls on, and improves to 22-1 and claims a district women's basketball title after Saturday's 37-28 win over Marysville. Steve Blackledge writes for weekend Press Pros.
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Saturday, 27 February 2021 / Published in Central Ohio, Features, Home Features

Blackledge: Olentangy Orange Squeezes By Big Walnut For Sect. Title

Olentangy Orange came up short on shooting and used its defense to claw to a Division I sectional title Friday over Big Walnut. Steve Blackledge writes for Saturday Press Pros.
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Saturday, 20 February 2021 / Published in Central Ohio, Features, Home Features

Westerville South Puts Bad Times Behind Them, Wins At Kilbourne

Westerville South got 18 points from Jaiden Guice and a quality tournament tuneup Friday to earn a road win at Worthington Kilbourne. Steve Blackledge writes the story for Saturday's Press Pros.