Tallmadge High School Eyes Competitive 2026 Football Campaign
The 2026 football season at Tallmadge High School promises a resurgence, built around a returning core of 25 lettermen who helped the program navigate a challenging 3‑7 campaign the previous year. Among them, senior linebacker James Robinson distinguished himself with 111 tackles, 16 for loss, two interceptions and a sack as a sophomore, while defensive tackle Daron Clark added 44 stops, 12 for loss and four sacks. Wide receiver Chad Rusinko contributed 18 catches for 340 yards and three touchdowns, giving the offense a reliable target.
Running back Angelo Gotto, who re‑joined the program after starring in his hometown under his father, Tony, brings a blend of rushing and receiving prowess. He amassed 576 yards on the ground with two touchdowns and added 157 yards and a score through the air last season, providing a versatile weapon for the offense.
At quarterback, the team will lean on two emerging talents, Chase Waller and Connor Loughry, who are battling for the starting role. Both have shown flashes of promise in preseason work, and the coaching staff believes either can steer the offense toward a more dynamic attack.
A New Conference Landscape
The schedule reflects a significant shift, as Tallmadge moves from the Suburban League American Conference to the Metro Athletic Conference. Home games will be played in Streetsboro, and the slate includes matchups against ELLET, Green, Aurora, Kent Roosevelt, Norton, Ravenna, Woodridge and Cloverleaf, promising competitive contests against familiar regional rivals.
Coach Mike Hay, now in his seventh year, brings a career record of 36‑37 and a steady hand to the program. His experience and focus on developing juniors and seniors have reinvigorated the team’s mindset, with an emphasis on discipline and improvement.
With a blend of seasoned seniors, promising juniors and a refreshed conference outlook, Tallmadge aims to reclaim its competitive edge and contend for playoff success in 2026.