The St. Thomas Aquinas Knights are set to open their 2026 football campaign on August 21, hoping to turn the page after a winless 2025 season that left them at 0‑10.
A fresh start
The upcoming slate features early tests against familiar foes such as Strasburg‑Franklin and Wellsville, with additional matchups against Tuscarawas Central Catholic and other regional opponents.
The Ohio High School Athletic Association will launch its state playoffs on October 30, a date that marks the beginning of a postseason run that could culminate in the championship games scheduled for early December at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.
The 2025 season recap reveals a series of close contests and heavy defeats, each loss documented in detail, providing the coaching staff with a clear picture of areas needing improvement.
Looking ahead
With the new schedule in mind and the promise of a deeper playoff run, the Knights are focusing on fundamentals, conditioning and community support as they aim to break the losing streak that has defined the past year.
Championship weekend
The state championship games are set for December 3‑5, bringing together the top teams from across Ohio in a showcase that draws fans from across the state.
As the team prepares to take the field, players and coaches alike speak of renewed confidence, emphasizing that the early‑season games will serve as a litmus test for the progress made during the offseason.