The Ashland Arrows, a Division II program in the Ohio Cardinal Conference’s Region 7, open the 2026 season with optimism after a dominant 2025 campaign that produced a 10‑2 record and playoff victories over Lexington and Columbus DeSales.
A legacy of winning
Coach Scott Valentine, now in his third decade at the helm, is poised to notch his 200th career victory. His long tenure has forged a culture of excellence that includes 16 playoff appearances and a home winning streak that stretches into its fifteenth year.
Last season the team showcased a potent offense, highlighted by senior wideout Killian O’Brien, who amassed 40 receptions for 760 yards and 12 touchdowns, and running back Grayson Baith, who contributed nine rushing scores before a Week 10 knee injury. Meanwhile, linebacker Liam Hubacher led the defense with 55 tackles, the top returner on that side of the ball.
Replacing the pillars
The departure of quarterback Nathan Bernhard, the school’s all‑time leader in passing categories, leaves a sizable void. Bernhard’s 8,817 career passing yards and 76 touchdowns set a benchmark that the new signal‑caller will strive to match. The offensive line also loses Jeff Hickey, who intercepted six passes a year ago, and the defense must replace tackle Gunner Lacey, the career tackles leader.
Despite these losses, the Arrows retain several key contributors. Carson O’Brien, Bernhard’s backup, is expected to see increased snaps, while Gabe Baith aims to build on his sophomore production. The coaching staff hopes the experience of returning players like Hubacher will offset the turnover.
A tough road ahead
Region 7 remains one of the most competitive brackets, featuring traditional powers such as Massillon and Big Walnut. The 2026 schedule mirrors the previous year’s slate, adding matchups against Bay, Marion Harding, Clyde, New Philadelphia, Dover, Madison, Mansfield Senior, West Holmes, Wooster, and Lexington. The team hopes to extend its 15‑game home winning streak while navigating a landscape that includes both familiar foes and new challenges.
With a blend of seasoned leadership and fresh talent, the Arrows look to translate their offseason preparation into on‑field success. The upcoming season will test the program’s depth, but the culture cultivated by Valentine and his staff suggests the Arrows will once again contend for playoff berths.