The 2026 high school football season in the Lancaster, Ohio, area is set to begin with preseason practice on August 1, a date that marks the start of weeks of preparation for the region’s teams.
Opening Week Highlights
When the first official games arrive on August 21, the schedule promises a cascade of early‑season confrontations, with Lancaster opening against Hilliard Darby, Bloom‑Carrol traveling to River Valley, and Fairfield Union hosting New Lexington, among others.
The slate also includes Amanda‑Clearcreek’s road test at West Jefferson, Liberty Union’s showdown with Monroe Central, Berne Union’s visit to River Valley, Fairfield Christian Academy’s matchup with Southeastern, Fisher Catholic’s trip to Belpre, and Millersport’s journey to Windham.
Coaches and players alike are gearing up for a busy opening weekend, a period that often sets the tone for the weeks ahead and draws large crowds from across the county.