The Mentor High School football program, a staple of the Greater Cleveland Conference, enters the 2026 season riding the momentum of a 12‑1 record that saw the team reach the Division I regional final a year ago.
A New Chapter Under Coach Gray
Head coach Matt Gray, now in his seventh year, brings a career record of 55‑18 and a reputation for developing talent. His staff remains intact, providing continuity as the team navigates the loss of twelve seniors.
Among the returning leaders is senior quarterback Brogan Jones, whose arm strength and poise have made him the face of the offense. Complementing him are veteran wide receivers Logan Berwald and Phelan Harrold, both of whom honed their route‑running and hands during the previous campaign.
Defensively, the line is anchored by senior Kenny Hamilton, who holds school records for bench press and squat, giving the unit a physical edge. The kicking game also benefits from sophomore Daniel Kristo, widely regarded as one of the area’s most reliable kickers.
Emerging talent such as junior Jeremiah Claridy is expected to expand the passing attack, while the offensive line’s cohesion will be tested early in the schedule.
Challenges and Opportunities
The departure of twelve seniors leaves sizable holes, particularly on the offensive line where chemistry will be crucial. Early games against Olmsted Falls, Erie McDowell and St. Ignatius will serve as benchmarks for whether the unit can click.
Despite the turnover, the coaching staff remains optimistic. They emphasize that the blend of seasoned veterans and promising underclassmen could produce a high‑scoring offense if the line improves quickly.
The 2026 slate also includes matchups with traditional rivals like Brunswick, promising competitive contests that could shape the team’s playoff prospects.