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.
While running back Dayne Schmidt, quarterback Josh DiBlasio and receiver Kaden Windham did the heavy lifting on offense, Davidson’s defense played a big hand with several key stops and forced turnovers. Hilliard, OH – The adjectives used to describe Hilliard Davidson senior running back Dayne Schmidt probably would make his mother cringe. “Dayne … he’s
Joey Slates gained 142 of his game-high 166 yards in the second half and teammate Deangelo Nardone sparked a stout defense with two interceptions as the Celtics won for just the second time in their intra-district rivalry with Coffman. Dublin, OH – Joey Slates has no designs on adding offensive coordinator duties to his role
Kohen Kornegay led a potent rushing attack with 136 yards and three touchdowns as Darby overpowered crosstown rival Bradley, which damaged its own cause with untimely mistakes. Hilliard, OH – Sometimes, a fresh new approach is just what the doctor ordered – for both teenagers and grown-ups. For coach Brad Burchfield, who went 168-50 with
Led by Division I commits CJ Sanna (Ohio State), Kaden Gebhardt (Clemson) and Daniel Stephens (Navy) and supported by big-play demon Ryan Wiesner, Olentangy’s defense put the shackles on a graduation-depleted Liberty in a statement game for the Braves. Powell, OH – It’s a long, long high school football season – 16 games for the
After starting the season 8-6, Olentangy proved it was a team of destiny down the stretch, capping its incredible run with a 2-1 state championship win over high-powered Springboro. It was especially emotional for Columbus Clippers manager Andy Tracy, who was granted leave to watch his son's final game.