The Cincinnati Enquirer has released its annual list of the top returning special teams players from Greater Cincinnati high schools for the 2026 football season, spotlighting the region’s most reliable kickers and punters.
Standout Performers
Grayson Bedacht of La Salle posted a near‑perfect 36‑of‑37 conversion on extra points and went 4‑of‑6 on field goals, including a 41‑yard longest, while averaging 40 yards per punt and securing six touchbacks.
Owen Davidson from St. Xavier contributed 39‑of‑40 extra points and 9‑of‑13 field goals, his leg helping the Bombers reach the Division I state finals with 31 touchbacks on 65 kickoffs.
Jace Horner of Clinton‑Massie was flawless on 49‑of‑51 extra points and 3‑of‑3 field goals, playing a key role in the Falcons’ 10‑2 record.
A.J. Fitzstephens from Lakota East added 6‑of‑10 field goals and 34‑of‑36 extra points, delivering 16 touchbacks in 54 kickoffs.
Jack Mallabar of Moeller went 10‑of‑12 on field goals and 49‑of‑51 extra points, including a 47‑yard field goal, and posted a 55.6‑yard average on kickoffs with three touchbacks.
Gabe Miyahara from Badin contributed 7‑of‑10 field goals and 58‑of‑61 extra points, helping the Rams finish 10‑2 and preparing to assume kickoff duties.
Drew Seinen of Indian Hill was reliable, converting 63‑of‑66 extra points and 10‑of‑13 field goals with a 44‑yard longest, and placing 11 of 24 punts inside the 20‑yard line.
Will Shteiwi of Mariemont recorded 32‑of‑33 extra points and 8‑of‑11 field goals, added 24 touchbacks on 54 kickoffs, and placed six punts inside the 20.
Freshman C.J. Woodside from Wyoming went 62‑of‑63 on extra points and 2‑of‑3 field goals, establishing himself as one of the city’s most dependable kickers.
Finally, Logan Zembrodt of Covington Catholic was perfect, going 59‑of‑59 on extra points and 4‑of‑4 on field goals without a miss, contributing to a 9‑4 season for the Colonels.
Season Impact
Collectively, these athletes have proven to be pivotal in shaping field position and scoring opportunities for their respective teams. Their consistency on extra points and ability to convert field goals at crucial moments have often been the difference in tightly contested games. As the 2026 season approaches, coaches and analysts alike will be watching how these standout performers translate their high school success into collegiate and beyond opportunities.