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The Arcanum Lady Trojans won a key league match-up with Preble Shawnee to remain undefeated overall at 7-0 and in the league at 3-0.  (Dale Barger photo)

ARCANUM – In 2023 Arcanum went to Preble Shawnee in what would be a key match-up leading to Arcanum’s only league loss in the WOAC.  The Trojans would end up in tie with the Arrows both having outstanding years. 

Preble Shawnee has been in the mix for the league title all three years of the WOAC finishing runner-up to Tri-Village in 2021, League Champs in 2022 and Co-Champs with Arcanum in 2023, knowing that history this is one of those games you expect to impact the conference title.

In 2023 the game went the full 5 sets … but there would no drama in this one as Arcanum won in three straight 25-4, 25-8 and 25-10. 

Arcanum may not have said it, but it was definitely a long year to wait to get their rematch and they took full advantage.

“After our win against Ft. Recovery on Saturday, I think it gave our girls a huge boost to come out ready to play today, we knew Shawnee is not a team that you can just come in and expect to just play an ok game, and expect a good result,” Arcanum coach Jacie Holman said.

The Trojans game was more than ok as they blitzed the opening set winning 25-4 and the 2nd - 25-8.  They did it with outstanding service and play at the net drawing praise from coach Holman.

“I think if there's one thing people need to watch out for when it comes to us, it's our serving. We can move the ball around with nasty floats, and they drop. You know, we always talk about in our own practice, the serving is what helps us. I don't think that there is a stronger team in the WOAC with our serving, and it helps us every single day in practice,” Holman added.

Arcanum's Caroline Long meets Macy Price at the net to win a point for the Trojans.  (Dale Barger photo)

Arcanum was able to keep Preble Shawnee off balance with their serve most of the night but their game at the net was strong as well.

“We wanted to get them out of system right away and make it hard for them to get the ball to Sally Montgomery (Shawnee’s outstanding jr. outside hitter) because we knew that's where the ball was going to go, and I think we performed that pretty well.  I’ve got to give credit to my girls, my right sides that were out there on her, and definitely even put some of those balls away against her,” Holman praised.

Arcanum worked hard to keep the skilled and athletic Sallie Montgomery in check as she tries to place the ball over the net. (Dale Barger photo)

Senior Mackenzie Byrne had 9 kills and Senior Alexis Gibbons 7 in the game.  Juniors Caroline Long and Kamryn Beisner each had 6 kills to lead the Trojans.

They were set up by jr. Grace Fry who led with 16 assists and sophomore Matty Noe who had 12.

While Preble Shawnee showed a little more fight in the 3^rd set it would be too much to come back from falling 25-10.

“I give kudos to my girls. Our word for tonight was discipline, we wanted to be disciplined and mentally tough, and I think that's exactly what we were tonight, Holman explained

Arcanum's Alexis Gibbons gets one of her 7 kills in the game. (Dale Barger photo)

“When I look at my girls, there are some nights that we've had a few off, and other girls have really stepped up and that's the been the difference about this team, is we are playing together as a team. We're not playing as individuals. Our goal is to win as a team and not as one person,” Holman concluded.

That philosophy appears to be working as Arcanum remains undefeated so far this year at 7-0 overall and 3-0 in the conference with big wins over Newton and Ansonia in the league as well.  The Trojans are back in on Tuesday traveling to take on Dixie in WOAC action.

Preble Shawnee falls to 4-4 overall and 1-2 in the conference and they will be back in action on Monday September 9^th at Madison.

The Preble Shawnee Lady Arrows celebrate a point in the 3rd set.  They would fall to Arcanum in straight sets.  The Arrows gave the Trojans their only league loss last season.  (Dale Barger photo)
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Arcanum Senior Graham Brubaker leads all WOAC Golfers shooting under par 34.29 strokes per nine holes.  (Dale Barger Photo)

As we turn the corner and halfway through the golf season we take a look at the top teams and individual performers in the league.

In the first 3 years of the WOAC the Newton Indians have tied for the conference championship every year.  They tied Arcanum the 1^st two years and last year with National Trail all sharing the league title. 

National Trail Freshman Josh Brubaker has hit the links running currently in 2nd place in the WOAC averaging 37.86 strokes a round.  (Submitted Photo)

This year the Blazers are trying to break the three straight years of ties looking for an outright title, currently stands at 7-0 in the league having already defeated Arcanum and Dixie who are both a game behind at 6-1 as we head down the stretch and into the season ending league tournament to be held on September 19^th at the Richmond Elks Golf Club.

There have been several school records broken this year by individual golfers and leading the league overall in scoring is Arcanum Sr. Graham Brubaker with an incredible 34.29 strokes per nine holes a below par average.  Arcanum Soph Luke Stephens is 6^th with a 40.00 average.

National Trail holds 3 of the top 5 spots freshman Josh Brubaker at 37.86 per round in 2^nd, Sr. Nick Brubaker is 4^th at 38.80 and Jr. Kellen Laird is 5^th at 39.24. Trevor Huffman a Sr. from Dixie is 3^rd in the league shooting a 38.13.

Dixie's Trevor Huffman is 3rd in the league with 38.13 strokes per round.  The Greyhounds are 9-1 overall and currently tied for 2nd place with Arcanum at 6-1 in the conference.  (Dale Barger Photo)

Boys Golf Statistics Top 10 - All Meets

National Trail Jr. Kellen Laird is having a good year so far averaging 39.29 strokes per round and in 5th place overall in the league.  (Submitted Photo)

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Jr. QB Brody Morton follows his line for a 1-yard sneak across the goal line.  He would lead the Arrows to a 42-25 win over Tri-Village in big WOAC win.  (Dale Barger photo)

There are a few games circled on the calendar for the 2024 WOAC Football season and the Preble Shawnee at Tri-Village game was one of them.  There were many electrifying plays by both teams but in the end it was the more experienced Arrows hitting their mark more to earn the 42-25 win.

Tri-Village on its first possession went three and out and a short punt left Shawnee at midfield to start their opening possession. 

Junior quarterback Brody Morton didn’t take long to hit his first target slinging an arrow 40 yards to senior wideout Isaac Blankenship who made a great catch on the boundary at the 10-yard line.

Isaac Blankenship hauled in this 40-yard reception at the 10-yard line to set-up the teams first score.  (Dale Barger Photo)

A few plays later Morton takes it in on a QB sneak up the middle to give Preble Shawnee a quick 7-0 lead at 8:29 of the 1^st period.

TV was unable to move the ball again on offense and Shawnee took over at their 40.  Morton on a QB keeper broke a few tackles and sprinted 60 yards for what appeared to be a TD, was called back due to a holding penalty.

The Patriots generated a few positive plays on their 3^rd possession but once again forced to punt.

It was like watching a re-run with Morton pulling the ball on the fake handoff then running up the left sideline 90-yards to the endzone only have it called back too on a holding penalty.

But the Patriots gave one back to the Arrows on pass interference negating an interception and Shawnee cashed in with a 13-yard screen pass to Smith to go up 14-0 at 7:19 of the 2^nd quarter.

After struggling to move the ball much of the first half the Patriots finally got the offense moving with a big play coming on a scramble by junior quarterback Trey Sagester thn heaving a 30-yard pass to Lane Bierly who got behind the defense.


Tri-Village Sr. Lane Bierly nearly intercepted this pass, he later had an INT & a reception for 30-yards to set-up the PATS 1st TD.  (Dale Barger Photo)

The Patriots eventually scored on the drive on a 1-yard Sagester run to end the first half trailing 14-7 giving the home team some momentum.

“Yeah, I was really disappointed in how we started. Really, really disappointed … because that's a really good team over there,” said Tri-Village coach Matt Hopkins on their start in the football game.

Hopkins could breathe a bit better at the half full well knowing his team could have been trailing by much more than they were.

“We just can't dig a hole, you know they're (Shawnee) a senior laden team, and they're athletic and we put ourselves in a hole … but we were able to battle and get that score right before the end of the half,” Hopkins added.

“It’s early in the season but we know coming in, Tri Village kids play very hard. We made some mistakes that took away a few of our big plays and then they scored right before the half,” Preble Shawnee coach Dave Maddox stated.

Tri-Village was fortunate to be in the position they were and was looking to use the momentum to start the 2^nd half but squandered a scoring opportunity after driving to the 10-yard line.  A bad snap and a negative yardage play left them facing a 4^th down and goal from 40 yards away and they would turn the ball over on downs.

The Arrows Morton made them pay with his feet going 51-yards for a TD and this time no holding penalty to move in front 21-7 at 5:25 of the 3^rd quarter.

Morton had a few long runs for TDs called back in the first half but he would make good on this run of 51 yards for the score.  Morton ran for 3 TDs and passed for one in the game. (Dale Barger Photo)

Tri-Village quickly answered the score on a 22-yard pass from Sagester to sophomore Griffin Richards … but a failed extra point left the Patriots trailing 21-13 at 4:46 .


TV Soph. Griffin Richards scored a TD early in the 2nd half.  He had 8 receptions for 97 yards & two TDs in the game. (Dale Barger photo)

The Patriots added another score on a 33-yard strike to a surprisingly wide-open sophomore Teddy Miller, who practically walked into the endzone.  The two-point conversion failed, as TV trailed 21-19 with a minute to go in 3^rd quarte

The Patriots squib kick left the Arrows in great field position on their 50 yard-line and two pass plays one to Sr. Isaac Blankenship for a big 1^st down, followed by a 20-yard pass to Sr. Lane Lovely had them in the red zone.   Again, it was Morton on the ground for the score pushing Preble’s was up 28-19 at 10:11 of the 4^thquarter.

Tri-Village found success again moving the ball through the air on 40-yard pass play to sophomore Hayden Hunt, a catch by Lane Bierly and a 12-yard pass from Sagester to Richards to answer the bell for a TD.  But failed conversions all night left the Patriots trailing by a field goal 28-25 with 7:58 to go in the game.

The Arrows after a good kick-off return into Patriot territory was able to get a couple of good runs, 25 yards from Morton and 10 from Lovely and then a short two-yard run around the end by Isaac Blankenship for the TD, kept the Arrows up 35-25 with six minutes to go.

Tri-Village ability to counter fell short on the next drive at the 5-yard line on an Arrows interception and they would take full advantage going 95 yards eating up clock as Lovely ran it in from 5-yards out extending the lead to 42-25 with 46 seconds to play sealing the game for Preble Shawnee.


QB Trey Sagester had 25 completions on 34 attempts for 315 yards, 3 TD's in the air.  He also had one rushing TD.  Here he feels pressure from Shawnee's Bryson Doran late in the game.  (Dale Barger Photo)

When the game got tough in the second half the Arrows were able to lean on their experienced senior laden players to pull away in a game that could have went either way down the stretch.

“In big moments you want your players that have the experience and have been there before to step up and make big plays. I feel like they did; Morton played an absolutely great game, along with Isaac Blankenship and Lane Lovely ran the ball well late,” Maddox exclaimed.

Arrows Sr. RB Lane Lovely ran well and was one of the experienced players coach Dave Maddox gave praise for stepping up and making big plays to pull away from the Patriots late.  (Dale Barger Photo)

Coach Hopkins acknowledged. 

“You know, all the credit goes to Coach Maddox and those guys, they were the better team tonight and took it to us,” Hopkins said.

“But I'm really proud of my guys for how we fought back, we finished strong and played really well after getting down early, we're a young team with a lot of new guys in new places, whether they're seniors or not, it’s to be expected. We haven't learned to compete at that level yet, and those are the growing pains,” Hopkins explained.

“I just told these guys, there's two roads we can go down. We can just go in a tank, and that's the easy way to do it, right?  Or we can refocus and get back after it on Monday,” Hopkins concluded.

While Preble Shawnee coach Dave Maddoxx is pleased to get the win he knows they have things to work on as well.

“They need to learn. I think after a big win last week and this week we need to learn to stay humble to keep fighting and keep battling, and that nothing is going to come easy. It was a hard week to prepare because we're practicing in 90-degree weather, and so it's just, you know a battle to get through that all week.  Going forward, we made a lot of mistakes today, made a lot of mistakes. And so, we've got to stay focused and get those corrected, and just move on and take it week to week, and get better every single day, that is what we try to do in this program,” Maddox concluded.

The Arrows had 385 yards of total offense, 261 rushing and 124 passing to the Patriots 381 yards, 315 yards passing and 66 yards rushing.   

The Arrows get to put one of the big games in the win column but there are 8 games left and one really big one circled on the calendar still in week 9 on October 18^th at Ansonia.

Preble Shawnee goes to 2-0, 1-0 and they will host 1-1, 1-0 National Trail this Friday who was a 26-12 Thursday night winner over Tri-County North.

Tri-Village falls to 1-1, 0-1 and they will host 0-2, 0-1 Twin Valley South on Friday.

In Big games its the unseen battles in the trenches that often lead to a teams success over the course of game as Preble Shawnee's Cooper Shrout and Tri-Village's Logan DeLong go at it.  (Dale Barger Photo)
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In three years of Volleyball in the WOAC Preble Shawnee holds a slight lead winning an outright title in 2022-23 and shared a title in 2023 and 2024 with Arcanum.  Tri-Village won the title in the first year of the league in 2021-22.  

Look for another competitive run for a title between Arcanum and Preble Shawnee in 2024-25.  Newton has been knocking at the door the last 3 years as well finishing runner-up twice.

Arcanum Trojans (2023 Record 19-6, 10-1 WOAC) League Co-Champ

Arcanum under the direction of Jacie Holman who has had success over the last couple of years with the Trojans, her team will focus on playing to one another’s strengths.

“This allows the team to become stronger together. Each of the girls brings something different to our offense, whether through serving, hitting, blocking, or passing. As a team, we are relying on each other’s strengths for each game to ensure we play our best game every time we step onto the court,” Holman stated.

“We want our defense to be aggressive and make our competition earn every single point. As a defense, our focus is to not give our competition any easy points through dropped balls, balls hit out of bounds - we want to be able to control the tempo of the game,” Holman added.

“Our team’s strength this year is our desire to want to win and be the best team we can be every time we step onto the court. We want to ensure every time we step onto the court, we give 110% and leaving no “what ifs.” This team has also been really strong with celebrating the team’s success versus celebrating individual success. They all understand the individual success comes with the team success – but their main focus is the team being successful again this year,” Holman explained.

Holman believes in order to be successful they need to give all-out effort on everyone point of every set.  “We really want to focus on eliminating our mistakes and forcing our competitors to make the errors by being consistent, smart, and aggressive. Our key is to play point by point rather,” she relayed.  

Holman believes there are a lot of good teams and many who can win on a given night.

“I believe every team will be competing for the top spot this year. When I look at our conference, it is always fun to follow what is happening with one another – because you truly never know what is going to happen night by night. I am excited to see what this season brings - because I have a feeling it’s going to be a tight race.

Here is a look at top players for Arcanum.

1. Jordyn Garbig                  So.                            DS
2. Matty Noe                  So.                            S/DS
3. Ella Flatter                  So.                            RS
4. Grace PsczulkoskiJr.                               RS/OH
5. Lexy Gibbons                            Sr.                             MH
6. Grace Fry                                      Jr.                              S
7. Avery Leeper                             Jr.                              RS
8. Kamryn Beisner                      Jr.                              OH/DS
9. Mackenzie Byrne                   Sr.                             OH/DS
10. Claire Hein So.                            S
11. Caroline Long Jr.                              MH
12. Cameron Garbig So.                            DS

Preble Shawnee (2023 Record 17-5, 10-1 WOAC) League Co-Champ
Photo by (Champine Photography)

Preble Shawnee will be coached this you by Brody Rike in his first year at the varsity.

“My wife Mandy (our JV coach) and I have been coaches at the middle school level at Preble Shawnee for about ten seasons in the last 15 years as well as involved in coaching club volleyball. It has been our privilege to be about of the Shawnee Volleyball Program and the relationships, and volleyball tradition that come with it. This will truly be the program’s team as we have a great staff of coaches who are investing well into this group of young ladies,” Rike said.

“We have a lot of potential to have a strong offense this year, but in this game offense begins with defense. Defense is where we are rebuilding, and I am confident that our girls will grow to their potential,” Coach Rike stated.

Coach Rike believes their strength lies in senior experience and returning letterwinners.

“With six returning letterman and five seniors our strength is our experience of playing in program with strong teams in the last two seasons. These ladies seem to know what is expected of them to win and more importantly how to stick together.”

“A season is best approached one game and one practice at a time. If we keep getting better each day and keep building each other as a team this group of girls will compete for another league title this year,” Rike expressed.

“We have been fortunate to win two league titles in the three years of the WOAC. Arcanum and Tri-Village have league titles of their own. These schools along with Franklin Monroe and Newton have put together winning league records every year. I anticipate these will be the teams competing for a league title this year along with a strong Mississinawa team,” Rike concluded.

Here is list of key players for this year.

1. Emma Fields * 12 OH/DS
2. Ally Rike * 12 RS/S
3. Emily Shields* 12 L
4. Caylee Hatmaker * 12 MB
5. Sallie Montgomery* 11 OH/S
6. Macy Price* 11 MB/DS
7. Layla Roberts12                              RS
8. Aubree Thompson 11 DS
9. Bailey Garnett 10 DS

Newton Indians (2023 Record 17-7, 9-2 WOAC) 2^nd Place in League


Submitted Photo

The Indians will be led again by Coach Danita Rapp who has had a lot of success over the last five years and has been knocking at the door of a league title.

“This year’s team comes with  a lot of player experience and depth. Each of the girls have the ability to contribute to multiple skills and positions which gives us a big range and the ability to adjust as needed,” Rapp said.

“Although we always strive to perform with a winning record we believe the wins are a result of our teamwork and dedication to the process. That is ultimately what makes our program successful; each athlete committed to each other and the end goal. Each athlete giving 100% and is dedicated to improving their game each time they take the court,” Rapp added.

“Our goals this season are to maintain our winning record and to continue to push ourselves to achieve a competitive level of play against each opponent. We also want to see our team go further at the end of season tournament,”

“I expect the WOAC to again be a competitive season with many teams in the running for the top spots. There is a lot of talent within the WOAC teams, and I expect nothing less than the conference to be competitive. I anticipate Newton to be in the running for the top spot,” Rapp concluded.

Here is a look at key players this year.

1.*Sienna Montgomery             Sr             6’0”       MB          * 3 year returning varsity starter, team captain. Key player in front row line up, huge presence in our offense and blocking game. 1st team WOAC, 1st team D9 (2023-2024)

2.* Ava Rapp                                       Sr             5’7”       OH/DS  *3 year returning varsity starter. Team Captain, Key player: 6 rotation players. Brings all around depth to the court. Special Mention WOAC (2023-2024)

3.*Makenna Kesling                     Sr             5’8”       S               *2-year varsity starter Key player: Setter

4.*Hannah Williams Sr 5’2”       L               *2-year varsity starter. Team Captain. Key player: running backrow defense (Libero)

5. Elaine Schieltz Sr             5’4”       RS          

6. *Estie Rapp Jr              5”6”      OH/DS  *2 year returning varsity starter. Key player: 6 rotation player - brings all round depth to the court.

7.Aubrey Stetzel Jr              5”5”      S               Key player/newcomer who will bring depth to our starting lineup with her setting experience.

8.Candace Shellenberger       Jr              5”2”      DS          

9 Emily Laughman                         So            5”2”      DS          

10.Isabelle Prickett                      Fr             6’0”       MB          Newcomer - will bring a big presence in the front row.

11.Jersey Robinson Fr             5”7”      RS           Newcomer - will help round out our front row defense and attacking.

12 Laila Avila                                       Fr             5”2”      DS           Newcomer - will add strength to our defense and passing game

Mississinawa Valley (2023 Record 15-7, 8-3 WOAC) 3rd Place in League
Photo by Dale Barger

The Lady Blackhawks were a pleasant surprise last year in Volleyball but has a good mix of size and athleticism which will benefit them again this year.  They run a 5-1, quick offense and stack up their defense with their athletic ability depending on the other team they play.

“Our strength is based on our good hitting, blocking, quickness and teamwork.  We are working on getting better as individual players and bonding as a group,” said 3^rd year coach Nancy Whitted.

Coach Whitted returns to lead the squad and feels anyone could be in the running this year for a league title.

Danika Neargarder (#2)            11            S*

Makenna Hoggatt (#10)            11            OH, DS*

Allyson Waymire (#12)               11            OH, DS*

Caeden Fritz (#13)                         12            L*                              Returning from ACL injury

Aubrie Cooley (#18)                      12            RH*
Cora Hoggatt (#24)                        11            MH*
Gretchen Rodeheffer (#34)    10            MH*

Tri-Village Patriots (2023 Record 11-12, 7-4 WOAC) 4^th place in the league

Photo by Dale Barger

The Patriots will be under the direction of 2^nd year coach Taylor Rawlings who will have kids now more familiar with her coaching and playing style.

The Patriots plan to run a faster offense with consistent passes and sets and will defend perimeter and rotational.

“Our team strengths are the ability to consistently pass the serve and maintain solid defensive coverage giving the team a platform to control the game. The combination of consistent setting and smart hitting creates a potent offensive threat that will challenge any opponent. Our strategic playmaking adds an extra layer of complexity, allowing us to adapt to different game situations and exploit opponents' weaknesses. It's clear that the chemistry among players is a significant asset. This cohesion will be invaluable in tight matches and when facing adversity. By continuing to build upon these strengths, the team has the potential to achieve great success,” Rawlings said.

Key to winning for the Rawling are Consistency, Chemistry, Commitment, Communication, Confidence, Composure, and Competitiveness.

“This year we have derived our success to our “7 C’s” individually and as a team. If we set our standard high, follow our standard no matter the competition, and utilize our abilities we will have a successful season,” Rawlings added.

“Our team goals are to win the WOAC and making  it to the Elite 8,” Rawlings stated.

Coach Rawlings sees Arcanum, Franklin Monroe and Tri-Village along with several teams rebuilding from last year's losses making the competition for the top position wide open.

“I feel the three teams listed bring similarities of aggressive offenses and consistent defenses,” Rawlings concluded.

1. Jaelyn Sweet                SO          5’5          DS          

2. Heidi Bell *   JR             5’6          OH         

3. Kaylie Lytle SO 5’5 RS          

4. Emma Whaley JR 5’9          MH        

5. Gabby Kirby SO 5’8          OH          Key Newcomer

6. Bailey Frech SO 5’8          RS          

7. Lilly Camacho *         SR           5’8          OH         

8. Kenna Wilcox * SO 5’8          MH        

9. Mylee Bierly* SO 5’5          L              

10. Zoe Ayette *               SO          5’5          S              

11. Lauren Porter            SR           5’9          MH        

12. Camryn Osborne JR             5’6          DS           Key Newcomer

13. Ava Pipenger * SR 5’7          S              

Franklin Monroe (2023 Record 12-11, 6-5 WOAC) 5^th place in League

Submitted Photo

Franklin Monroe is led by veteran coach Angie Filbrun who has a very easy style but commands respect from her players.  The Jets have always been competitive and gritty and will be a tough test every night.

1. Eavy Clark                    Sr.        RS

2. Alivia Addis*               Jr              OH

3. Presley Cox * Sr.         OH         key player

4. Addie Bauman * Sr.         S              key player (holds 2 of the School Assist records in a Match & a Season, will hold Career record at end of  season)

5. Layni Ressler * Sr.        L               key player

6. Adi Tucker                   Sr.          DS

7. Maura Yount*          Sr.          RS

8. Katie Waller * Jr.     RS/DS

9. Allie Muhlenkamp *    Sr.    MH         Key player

10. Reagan Flora So.

11. Olivia Medve *        Sr.          MH

Ansonia (2023 Record 9-13, 5-7 WOAC) 6^th place in League
Photo by Dale Barger

The Tigers are coached by Lydia Schlarman

The Tigers will run a combination of a 5-1 and 6-2 on and would like to run a quicker offense this year.

“I believe the team strength comes from communication and passing, and our servers are a huge strength for us,” Schlarman explained.

“Keys to success are as follows, keep attitude in check, play with confidence, constant communication between front and back row and trusting each other,” Schlarman explained.

“Our team goals are to improve our record from last year and be in the top 5 in conference,” Schlarman said.

She sees Arcanum and Preble Shawnee as the top teams to be this year.

1. Gabriella Leeper*                      12                              S

2. Lauren Warner*                          12                              DS

3. Shilt*                                     12                              MB

4. Ava  Erwin 12 DS

5. Malarie Butts 12 DS

6. Olivia Schmitmeyer* 11 MB

7. Lillian Kaiser 11 OH

8. Camryn Winner*                        11                              OH
9. Rosanna Barga                             11                              OH

10. Lydia Hahn 11 L

11. Ava Thatcher                               11                              OH

12. Alexis Moody                               11                              OH

13 Autumn Best                               9                                 MB         

Dixie (2023 Record 9-14, 4-7 WOAC) 7^th place Tie in League
Photo by (Champine Photography)

The Greyhounds will be coached by 1st year coach Mel Dumanlang.

“I’m originally from Chicago, moved to Ohio 8 years ago.  I Played volleyball for over 30 years, coached for over 25 years in high school and college level, in club and various high schools for boys’ and girls’ divisions.  Played in high school and college and still an active player in competitive tournaments and USAV adults,” Dumanlang stated.

Coach Dumalong wants to play a fast pace and hopefully have a lot of successful play runs. 

On defense, (perimeter) our girls are practicing being aggressive in defense and relying on speed and agility to defend against the best offense out there,” Dumanlang stated.

“This year’s strengths are a great change in attitude and the willingness to learn and expand in the game of volleyball.  Returning players with impactful roles.  i.e. players have different roles from their previous years of play here,” Dumanlang added.

“This fall, the focus of the team is to be on the same page and play well together while learning and growing from the previous year.  Returning players are working on new roles and getting better individually in their skill sets.  Wins may not measure success but hopefully will translate to them when the season is done,” an excited Dumanlang explained.

“Our team strives to be better and take one match at a time.  Goal is to try and be the best as a team, grow in this sport individually.  Be better than day one!!

Lumanlang isn’t familiar with returning teams, so the WOAC to is up for grabs. 

“The previous top teams Preble Shawnee and Arcanum should be considered, I would like to think Dixie will be a competitor for the top spots and show how a new year can bring in a new outlook,” Lumanlang concluded.

1.Bethany Himan          11                              OH/DS                 

2.Haley Mohr  12                              DS           Co-Captain

3.Teegan Miller               10                              S              

4. Hailey Armstrong 12 RS          

5. Ava Simon 12 OH          Team Captain, New role this year from Libero to OH playing all around, closing in on 1000 Digs lifetime

6. Melia Huffman 11 DS          

7. Kelsey Johnson 11 MB         

8.Savannah Denlinger                12                              S              

9 Kendyl Hypes               10                              MB          Co-Captain, Returning player being the anticipated leading hitter and blocker this year

10.Jacie Hartimer         9                                 L               Newcomer showing signs of being one of the top diggers in the league

11.Ella Kreitzer               9                                 OH          Newcomer this year

National Trail (2023 Record 9-14, 4-7 WOAC) 7^th place Tie League
Photo by (Champine Photography)

National Trail is led by veteran coach Jackie Barnes, and they will be looking to improve their standing with a good mix of experienced players with some younger talented players stepping forward.

“We have a few returning players who will provide stability for us in the Middle Hitter and Libero position. We have experiences players playing new roles and newcomers who have been working hard to want to fill those spots,” Barnes said

“Our goal is to show consistent improvement throughout the year. We are definitely a new team with inexperienced players and experienced players in new positions. We will work to grow every game we play this year,” Barnes concluded.

1. Jaelynn Remaklus 10 OH
2. Claire Osswald 10 S/RH
3. Kyleigh Ray * 12 MH
4. Haydn Davies * 11 L
5. Eva Swartsell 9 OH/RH
6. Miranda Ott * 12 MH
7. Jaylin Hurd 11 OH/DS
8. Kaitlyn Schweizer *                  12                              RH/S
9. Raylen Parker                                11                              DS
10. Maya Palmer 10 OH/MH
11. Evie Hoffman * 11 S/OH
12. Kylie Schul                                    11                              S

Twin Valley South (2023 Record 5-18, 2-9 WOAC) 9^th place in League
Photo by (Champine Photography)

Twin Valley South will be under the direction of new coach looking to improve upon a two-win year in the league. 

Mary Johnson is a first year Varsity Coach but has been coaching for the last few years.

“I was the Middle School coach and also for Club Volleyball 13U and younger.  I enjoy teaching girls the strategy of the game, not just the skill – sometimes you can out smart your opponent even if you can’t out skill them,” Johnson stated.

“My husband and I have 5 kids and 1 grandson, we spend our time chasing our kids around watching them do what they love.  During our free time we enjoy spending time with family and friends, camping and showing cattle.  I truly enjoy teaching girls the love of the game and I am excited for this year and to see how the season unfolds”!

The Panthers plan to switch between a 6-2 and a 5-1 depending on how the play is going and will be running a perimeter defense to start with but might change down the road.

“We are packed with a lot of skill in a lot of different positions.  I am excited for to the versatility of this team and the ability to move players around if someone is having an off night,” Johnson said.

“As a new coach, my goals are for this team to have fun, improve their skills and build confidence.  If we can keep talking we can do some big things out there, just need to keep the communication going,” she added.

“Our goals are to improve communication – work together, recognize each other’s strengths and weaknesses so we can work together cohesively as a team.  Stay on top, mentally – set it and forget it.  To improve our strategic play, have a better understanding of how the game is played,” Johnson concluded.

1. Jayce Mowell*            Sr                               Setter
2. Clara Meyers*             Sr                               MH
3. Kaitlynn Proctor Sr DS
4. Nevaeh Caldwell Sr OH
5. Brylii Day* Jr MH
6. Lainey Mercer* Jr OH
7. Emilee Zinn* Jr DS/L
8. Mya Hundley* So OH
9. Adisen Johnson* So Opp
10. Kynlee Metzger* So DS
11. Claire Wharton* So OH
12. Danika Caldwell Fr Setter

Bradford (2023 Record 2-20, 1-10 WOAC)

Photo by Don Selanders

The Railroaders will be under the direction of new Coach Jaimie Hocker.

She plans on playing a 5-1 offense and a 3-man defense.

“Our team strengths are our serves and being able to communicate with each other.  Our success this year is to get back to the fundamentals of volleyball.  Stop trying to over analyze the game and just have fun with the game,” Hocker explained.

“My goals are like everyone’s we want to win some games and build a strong team bond,” she added.

Hocker sees Newton as one of the top teams this year.

1. Megan Wood               12                              M
2. Kaylin Richard *        12                              L
3. Ryleigh Dotson *       11                              LF
4. Addy Mills * 10 LF
5. Lilly Canan * 10 RF
6. Chloe Hocker * 10 S
7. Hayven Evans 9 M

Tri-County North (2023 Record 0-22, 0-11 WOAC)

Photo by (Champine Photography)

There is only one way to go for Tri-County North as they look to break their winless season from a year ago.  They will try to do that with new coach Erika Bradshaw.

“This is my first year with TCN. My family and I recently moved to Ohio from Texas. I coached club in Texas for three years before moving to Ohio. I coached 7th grade for two years before starting my current Varsity position with North. I am originally from Michigan and there I coached two years of JV/V,” Bradshaw stated.

The Panthers will be running a 6-2 but later transiting into a 5-1 on offense and we are using a running, attacking perimeter style defense (EG defense).

“We are really good at picking ourselves up and keeping a positive mindset and I think if we keep a positive mindset, keep serving aggressive and keep our passes under control, we will be successful,” Bradshaw said.

North team goals are to keep the energy high, stay positive and keep communicating.

Bradshaw believes Preble Shawnee and Arcanum will be competing for the top spot.

Kora Lykins*                          12th       5’9”       M/RS   

Paityn Davidson 9th          5’3”       Libero will make a positive impact on the team!

Kayleigh Marshall* 12th 5’4”       DS          

Lola Grieshop 9th          5’8”       OH/M   definitely one to watch.

Grace Hemp* 12th       5’6”       Setter  

Kiley Adkins 10th       5’7”       All          

Taylor Cole* 12th       5’8”       All           

Audrey Fox   10th       5’2”       DS          

Chloe Jackson* 11th       5’9”       M/RS   

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Bradford Sr. QB Owen Canan leads his receiver in the foreground for a completion.  The Railroaders fell in the opener to Springfield Catholic.  (Dale Barger Photo)

The opening week of football in the WOAC was a bit rough with just two of the ten teams coming away with a victory in all non-conference games.

Preble Shawnee and Tri-Village were the two teams securing wins as they head into week two to start conference play and ironically enough the league opener pits the two against each other at Tri-Village in an early season key league match-up.

Preble Shawnee 52 - Middletown Madison 0

The Arrows used a very balanced passing and rushing attack and solid defense to take down Mohawks.

Jr. quarterback Brody Morton threw for 239 yards, 12/16, including 2 TD’s. Reece Smith had 104 yards receiving including a 26-yard TD reception and Caleb Blankenship had 63 yards on 3 receptions including a 21-yard TD catch.

Lane Lovely led the ground attack with 111 yards on 10 carries including 2 TD rushes and Isaac Blankenship also had two TD runs as well.  Nolan Earles and Ethan Mauller also had TDs on the ground.

Tri-Village 56 – Troy Christian 0

The Patriots generated 608 total yards of offense to overwhelm the Eagles with 334 coming on the ground and 274 in the air.

First year quarterback Trey Sagester threw for 274 yards and two for TDs.  Mason Weathington led the way with 97 yards receiving including a 26-yard TD reception.  Lane Bierly also had a TD catch of 43 yards.

On the ground Hayden Hunt led the way with 166 yards and 3 TDs.  Lathen Wehr had 2 TD’s and Maven Robinson and Colt Camacho both had a TD run.

Ansonia 32 – Riverside 41

The Tigers went undefeated in the regular season last year but took a loss to start this year after graduating a lot of talent.  The Tigers ground game appears to still be solid, but work needs to be done defensively after giving up 41 points the Pirates in the season opener.

Offensively Zane Henderson ran for 190 yards on the ground on 27 carries and had 2 TDs.  Lander Shives also rushed 22 times for 84 yards and 2 TDs.  Cainan Robinson also had a TD run as well.  In all Ansonia had 358 yards on the ground. 

The Tigers will open league play next Friday where they will host Bradford.

Bradford 6 – Springfield Catholic Central 37

It wasn’t the opening game experience that 1^st year coach Chuck Cantrell wanted but he knows better days are coming for the Railroaders who graduated a lot of talent from last year’s team.

Senior quarterback Owen Canan threw for 158 yards including 1 TD to Griffin Trevino for their only score of the game.  

Arcanum 27 – Covington 54

The Trojans got down early in their game at Covington but was able to finally get some offense going but unable to close the gap.

Arcanum quarterback Bishop Cartwright threw for 225 yards and 1 TD to Truman Knaus.  Lucas Miller had 99 yards receiving on 3 catches to lead the Trojans.

On the ground it was MJ Macy leading the way with 67 yards and 2 TDs.  Landon Wagner had a 1-yard plunge for a TD in the game as well.

Arcanum will travel south to play Twin Valley South on Friday.

Twin Valley South  7 – Carlisle 52

The Panthers will host Arcanum in week two to start league play.

Tri-County North 6 – Brookville 42

Tri-County North will host National Trail in a Thursday night game.

National Trail 14 – Bethel 41

The Blazers will travel to Lewisburg to play North on Thursday.

Dixie 3 – Lima Perry 33

The Greyhounds struggled on offense against a good Lima Perry team.  Quarterback Cole Swafford threw for 46 yards and ran for 19.  Trustin Miller was the leading ground gainer with 25 yards. Dixie had just 93 yards of offense for the game.

They will look to get things going when they travel to Mississinawa Valley this Friday.

Mississinawa Valley 12 – Waynesfield Goshen 36

The Blackhawks scored first in the game and last but in between Waynesfield Goshen scored 36 points.

Mississinawa Valley had 212 yards of offense.   Quarterback Caleb Spradling threw for 169 yards and 2 TDs.  Leland Kauffman had 58 yards receiving on 4 catches.  Kyle Wehrkamp and Cooper Nieport each had receptions for a TD.

The ground game was limited with Michael Bell going for 28 yards to lead the Blackhawks.

They will host Dixie in week two.

Arcanum Sr. QB Landon Wagner stretches across goal line for a score in game with Covington.  The offense was good but defense gave up 54 taking a loss.
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