The West Branch Warriors are gearing up for a promising 2026 campaign, aiming to build on a 10‑2 record from a year ago and to once again claim the Eastern Buckeye Conference title.
Head coach Tim Cooper will rely heavily on All‑Ohio quarterback Grady Hirst, a Youngstown State commit who threw for more than 2,660 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, anchoring an offense that averaged 39.9 points per game.
Key Returning Talent
Junior tight end Landon Coffee, a 6‑6, 225‑pound target in the Air Raid scheme, is expected to be a major receiving option and has already drawn interest from UConn, Toledo and Kent State.
Running back and receiver Gavin Marshall, standing 5‑11 and weighing 183 pounds, will add versatility to the backfield, contributing both as a rusher and a pass catcher.
A Tough Non‑Conference Slate
The Warriors will open the season against St. Clairsville, a matchup billed as one of the most anticipated Division IV games in Ohio, and will host EBC rival Alliance for the second straight year as part of the conference rotation.
They are also scheduled to play home games against Struthers, Howland, Marlington and Canfield, while traveling to face Carrollton, Minerva and Alliance on the road.
West Branch’s playoff pedigree is notable; the program has reached the postseason 15 times in its 66‑year history and has captured six consecutive Eastern Buckeye titles, a streak that began during Cooper’s early years at the helm.
Cooper often stresses the importance of community support and the deep roots many players have with the program, noting that several have been part of the team since elementary school.
With a blend of experienced lettermen and emerging playmakers, the Warriors hope to translate their high‑scoring offense into another dominant season and a deep playoff run.