The Manchester Panthers are set to open the 2026 high school football season on August 21, stepping onto the field in Division V, Region 17. The early matchup will serve as the first test for a squad that finished the previous year with an 8‑4 record.
A year ago the Panthers compiled a solid 8‑4 record, highlighted by wins over Coventry, Sandy Valley, Firestone, Canton South, Tuslaw, Fairless and Northwest. Those victories helped cement the team’s confidence heading into the new campaign.
The schedule also includes losses to Kenston, Triway, Orrville and Girard, providing valuable lessons that coaches say will shape the team’s approach moving forward.
Looking Ahead to a Promising Year
Postseason play is slated to begin on October 30, with the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s state championship games scheduled for December 3‑5 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton. The venue, located in the heart of the state, offers the Panthers a chance to showcase their talent on a marquee stage.
Rivalries with Rocky River, Streetsboro and Canton South pepper the regular season, each game promising a test of skill and determination. As the team prepares for the first kickoff, the excitement in the community is palpable, with fans eager to see whether the Panthers can translate their recent success into a deeper playoff run.