As the 2026 high school sports season approaches, three programs from Richland County are staking their claims on district championship titles and beyond. The Clear Fork Boys Soccer team, the Lexington Boys Tennis squad, and the Clear Fork Girls Soccer side each sit among the top rankings in the Richland 25, a benchmark that has become a rallying point for athletes, coaches and fans alike.
Clear Fork Boys Soccer
The Clear Fork Boys Soccer team is chasing a historic third straight district championship. Senior forward Kade Beachy, a multiple‑honor player in 2025, and midfielder Owen Weikle, whose contributions have been pivotal throughout the season, lead a squad that blends experience with emerging talent.
Lexington Boys Tennis
Lexington’s boys tennis team, though without a league title, captured a district championship and finished fourth at the state tournament. Standout performances from Phillip Etzel, who earned a singles berth at the state level, and the dynamic doubles partnership of Tony Palmer and Jack Campbell highlight a program that continues to punch above its weight.
Clear Fork Girls Soccer
The Clear Fork Girls Soccer team celebrated a Mid‑Ohio Athletic Conference championship in 2025, but fell just short of a district title. This year the roster will see fresh faces such as Katie Beck and Brea Bieri expected to make immediate impacts alongside returning star Mya Perry, a first‑team All‑District and All‑MOAC honoree, and Lily Swendal, a second‑team All‑District selection.
Community support has been palpable, with local businesses and families turning out for every match. As the teams prepare for district play, the narrative extends beyond trophies; it is about building legacies that inspire the next generation of athletes in Richland County.