Category: News

Obie Logo (Large)

Notes from the 2026 Summer Kickoff Event

Notes from the 2026 Summer Kickoff Event

There was a high level of excitement in the air at the Eagles 190 for the annual summer kickoff of the Massillon Tiger football season.  That’s because the Tigers are expected to field a team that is geared toward tremendous success, based on the return of 17 starters from last year’s team, bolstered by a deep bench of talented players.

The event was sponsored by the Massillon Tiger Booster Club, Jim Mutigli, President.

Massillon has 26 lettermen returning, including eight starters on offense and nine on defense, all of which have garnered over 125 Division I college offers.  The talented group aims to greatly improve upon last year’s 9-4 record.  Still grinding in their hearts is the season-ending loss to Big Walnut.  So Head Coach Nate Moore challenged both the players and the coaching staff to up the game this year.  And so far, the message is getting across.

“We are having a great offseason,” according to Moore.  “Everyone is answering the bell.  We also have a tremendous coaching staff.”  They will have really talented players to work with this year and normally, according to Moore, this level of talent is usually short in some off-field areas.  But not this group, he said, citing their work ethic and leadership.  “Our kids play for the City of Massillon,” he said.

Coach was also pleased to let the boosters know that every incoming senior on the team achieved at least a 3.0 GPA over the last quarter.  That includes a high mark of 4.56 for running back Savior Owens (Michigan State).

Moore also talked about the capital improvements projects on the high school campus, some of which have been recently completed, while others are just getting started; specifically, the new locker room and scoreboard.  The 22,000 sq. ft. locker room will be located in the south end zone and is designed as an NFL state-of-the art facility.  Meanwhile, the scoreboard will be the largest in the country for any stadium that is used by a single high school.   He thanked the David Foundation more than once for supporting this tremendous effort.

Left to right: Coach Rick Shepas, Coach Nate Moore, Justin Zwick, Jim Mutigli.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the event.

Guest Speaker Justin Zwick

  • Zwick was the starting quarterback for the Tigers in 2000 and 2001. During his senior year the team finished 12-2 and captured the regional championship.  Zwick was one of the best QBs ever at Massillon and holds single season records for pass attempts, pass completions, yards and touchdowns.  He later played for Ohio State.
  • Zwick said that he came to Massillon to see if he could play at the Division I level. He was also impressed with the level of coaching he could receive from Rick Shepas and his staff.
  • “Massillon is a special place. I was very glad to come over here (from Orrville).  I’m very grateful and lucky to have been a part of it.”
  • “Beating McKinley twice (in the same year) was good.”
  • Zwick praised the Sideliner program. “What you do here is special.”

Guest Speaker Coach Rick Shepas

  • Shepas coached the Tigers from 1998 through 2004, compiling a record of 53-27 and winning two Division I regional championships. He also owns a 5-3 advantage over McKinley.  Following Massillon, he coached for twelve years at Waynesburg University, finishing seven times in the conference’s Top 3.  He is currently the head coach at East Palestine High School.
  • “How great it was to be part of this community for seven years. I raised my family here.  It’s the one job I always wanted.  We had great players.  And we were able to do so much in a great environment.  The only place in the world where this would be this sustainable.”
  • “The program was not headed in the right direction when we came in. But we fixed that.  And only in Massillon could that be done.”
  • “I respect what sports have done for me. I’m a ‘respect for the game’ person. There’s no other sport than the game of football.  It takes eleven.  It takes a team.  I love the process.”

Strength & Conditioning Coach Dan Studer

  • Consistent with Moore’s message to “step it up,” the assistant coaches this year have been directly involved in the weight program. Workouts have been intense and brutal.  The players have worked incredibly hard, with great effort on all techniques.  Some of the guys were way above the rest of the field, including several lifting over 500 pounds in the back squat.  “We are strong.”
  • Former rugby pro Carlin Isles has been a great benefit in improving team speed. Several players have 40 times of 4.5 or lower, including Savior Owens (4.5), Deonte Malone (4.37) and Breyton Feister (4.4).
  • “The work ethic and attention to detail are really standing out.”

Cornerbacks Coach Bo Grunder

  • A really tight-knit group. Older guys are helping out younger guys.  “This shows strong character.”
  • Seniors Deonte Malone and Chayce White are returning starters at corner, while senior Braylon Gamble returns at safety. Gamble may end up playing linebacker at the next level, but he is too valuable on this Massillon team as a defensive play caller to make the move at this time.

Defensive Line Coach J.P. Simon

  • Simon is back home at the place he enjoys the most: the defensive line.
  • Two starters return from last year in seniors Joe Karder and Marcus Garner. However, Garner may be tasked this year with playing on both sides of the ball.  The third member of the line is expected to be newcomer junior Brydon Feister.  There are also several good players coming up, including junior Noah Garner, who Simon said had a great pre-season.
  • Simon believes that the defensive line is the strength of the defense.
  • “Coach Moore challenged the staff to develop the players. We need to give more.  Step the game up.  Making the final 4 doesn’t cut it.  We’re in it to win the state title.”  To bolster that, several coaches have spent time at various universities studying their techniques.

Defensive Coordinator, Inside Linebackers Coach Jeff Kent

  • Kent noted that he got here late last year, but this year the preparation process is on time.
  • “We are having a tremendous off-season. We are working five days a week.”
  • The Tigers are very deep at inside linebacker, with junior Devaughn Williams and senior newcomer Breyton Feister, along with juniors Jaxson Perry, Logan Thornsberry and Andrew Holland, plus seniors Ke’Aun Fowler and Sabastian Harper. There is a lot of depth, as opposed to last year.  We plan to play 16 to 20 ideally in games to keep fresh legs on the field.

Offensive Line Coach Ty Keirns

  • Three starters return from last year, including center Dayvionne Floyd and guards Kevin Elliott and Marcus Moore. Now seniors, he believes they are figuring it out.  The tackles may be manned by senior Landon Barnhart and junior Worth Hirning.
  • The line will be more technique oriented this year. That will give the running backs more options.

 Running Backs Coach Travis McGuire

  • Three primary running backs will carry the load this year, including returning starter Savior Owens, Breyton Feister and Christian Culler. All are seniors.   Owens is expected to get the bulk of the carries, with Feister and Culler also playing defense.  Also, keep an eye on senior Sabastian Harper and junior Adrian Pascley.
  • “We have a special unit. It’s our job to get it done.  We need to get the running backs over the line.”

Wide Receivers Coach Austin Kutscher

  • “It’s really good to be back.” Kutscher was an outstanding receiver for the Tigers and he later played for Ohio State.
  • The senior returnees include Georgio Jackson, Deonte Malone, Austin Pryor and Van Hawkins. Junior George Rivera should also receive time on the field.
  • “The leadership is good. Lots of maturity.  Good off-season.”

Offensive Coordinator, Quarterback Coach Evan Berbari

  • The starter at quarterback for this year will come from among three players: senior Mandwell Patterson, junior Rasmus Haines and freshman Donnie McMullen. Patterson is the returning starter.  Haines now weighs over 200 lbs.  And McMullen runs the 40 between 4.4 and 4.5.  It should be a good race to the finish.   “All had great pre-seasons.”
  • “We need to play great football on offense.” Expect a whole new offense this year.  ”It’s adapt or die.”  Look for multiple formations, different tight end configurations, shifts and motion.  Up tempo.  No huddling.
  • “I think we have a special group, with a chance to go a long way.”
Obie Logo (Large)

Work Has Begun on the New Football Stadium Locker…

The Massillon City School District recently announced the installation of a new football locker room for Paul Brown Tiger Stadium, which be located adjacent to the south end zone. The accommodate the facility, the south end scoreboard has been removed and will be replaced on the north end with a new state-of-the art scoreboard. In addition, the south end zone stands have been removed. The catalyst behind the project is the Paul and Carol David Foundation, Jeff David President.

Click here for details.

Obie Logo (Large)

2026 Lift-a-thon Results

2026 Lift-a-thon Results

The music was blaring, the crowd was cheering and the lifters were giving it their all at the WHS gym for the annual Steve Studer Memorial Lift-a-thon.  It was one more step in the quest for a second playoff state championship.  Once again, Strength Coach Dan Studer did a fantastic job of organizing and conducting the event.

Three lifts were required of each participant, two of which were on display during the event: clean lift, bench press and squat. Each lifter selected his preferred weight for each lift and then attempted as many as he could until his arms or legs gave out. A composite score was then used to determine the winner of each of eleven weight classes based on the total weight lifted and the number of reps (max. 10).  Achievement medals were then awarded to the top three lifters in each category.

What stood out most was first, the number of sizeable participants, with fourteen in the 230-250 lb. class and an equal number in the over 250 lb. class, and second, the amount of weight some of these guys could manage.

Here are the winners:

  • 140 lb. weight class – Ricardo Parker (So.)
  • 150 lb. weight class – Timothy Menches Jr. (Jr.)
  • 160 lb. weight class – Gregory Corsale (Sr.)
  • 170 lb. weight class – Jaxson Perry (Jr.)
  • 180 lb. weight class – Van Hawkins (Sr.)
  • 190 lb. weight class –Anthony Hoover (Sr.)
  • 200 lb. weight class – Sabastian Harper (Sr.)
  • 215 lb. weight class –  Tiki Green (So.)
  • 230 lb. weight class –  Savior Owens (Sr.)
  • Heavy weight class – Worth Hirning (Jr.)
  • Super heavyweight class – Kevin Elliott Jr. (Sr.)

140 lb. weight class – (1) Ricardo Parker, (2) Jacoby Boykin, (3) Malek Taylor

150 lb. weight class – (1) Timothy Menches Jr., (2) Bricen Motley, (3) William Sampsel II

160 lb. weight class – (1) Gregory Corsale, (2) Mateo Herrera, (3) Iziaha Johnson

170 lb. weight class – (1) Jaxson Perry, (2) Austin Pryor, (3) Hunter Swann

180 lb. weight class – (1) Van Hawkins, (2) Ke’Aun Fowler, (3) George Rivera

190 lb. weight class – (1) Anthony Hoover, (2) Adrian Pascley, (3) Joshua Williams

200 lb. weight class – (1) Sabastian  Harper, (2) Braylon Pachis, (3) Kaden Allen

215 lb. weight class – (1) Tiki Green, (2) Landon Hose, (3) Jaylen Relford (not shown)

230 lb. weight class – (1) Savior Owens, (2) Andrew Holland, (3) Blake Hawk

Heavyweight class (230-250) – (1) Worth Hirning, (2) Joseph, Russ-Karder, (3) Koletin Hodges

Super heavyweight class (250+) – (1) Kevin Elliott Jr., (2) Noah Garner, (3) Elliot Ervin Jr.

Obie Logo (Large)

Dr. David Reese to be Inducted into the Massillon…

Dr. David Reese to be Inducted into the Massillon Wall of Champions

The Massillon Tiger Football Booster Club is proud to announce that Dr. David Reese will be inducted this year into the “Massillon Wall of Champions.”  The formal ceremony will be held in conjunction with the Club’s Reverse Raffle event, which will be held this July at Eagles 190.

The Wall of Champions is reserved for Massillon grads who played a varsity sport and then went on to accomplish something remarkable later in life.  The Wall currently has 44 members, including previous inductees Paul Brown, Chris Spielman, Steve Studer, Joe Sparma, Harry Stuhldreher and Mike Hershberger.

Reese played center on the Massillon High School football team in 1908.  He also played tennis, winning the school championship as a sophomore.  As a freshman, he was the class president.

In the photo below of the 1908 Massillon team, Reese is believed to be the player that is laying down on the right side.

1908 Varsity Football Team

 

Two years after graduating he enrolled at Denison University, where he achieved a bachelor’s degree in philosophy.  Aside from pursuing a career in dentistry, he also made quite an impact on the sports field.  In each of his four years there he received letters in football, basketball, baseball and tennis, becoming the only Denison athlete to earn twelve letters.  In football, his team won the Ohio Conference championship in 1914.  A standout in basketball, he received 1st Team All-Ohio and 1st Team All-Conference honors as a senior.

Later, Reese was inducted into the Denison Varsity “D” Hall of Fame, while also heading up the Denison Society of the Alumni from 1949-50.

And he did finish his dentistry education, receiving DDS and OCDS degrees from the University of Cincinnati.

After Denison, Reese pursued a career in professional football.  In 1915 he played for the Cincinnati Celts and then from 1918 through 1923 with the Dayton Triangles, which joined the NFL in 1920.  He also played some professional basketball.

But he never left the sports arena, serving as a referee for over thirty years in high school, college and professional games.  He was even one of the referees for the 1940 Massillon-McKinley game.  And the 1944 Notre Dame-Army game.  Unfortunately, in that one he was run over by Army’s famed running back “Doc” Blanchard and suffered a broken leg and arm.  Reese later boasted that he stopped Blanchard better than the Irish did all day in losing 58-0.

His defining moment came when he was named the first commissioner of the Mid-American Conference (MAC.  In that position he served from 1946 through 1964, managing expansion of the league from its initial five members of Ohio University, Butler, Cincinnati, Wayne and Western Reserve to seven, with the addition of Bowling Green, Kent State, Marshall, Miami, Toledo and Western Michigan and with the departure of four original members (except Ohio).

As a tribute to Dr. Reese, the MAC annually awards the Reese Trophy to the MAC team that achieves the greatest success.  He was also inducted into the MAC Hall of Fame.

Now it’s Massillon’s turn.

Dr. Reese died on June 26, 1976.

Obie Logo (Large)

Massillon Releases 2026 Football Schedule

Massillon Releases 2026 Football Schedule

Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore has released the schedule for 2026 Tigers.  The slate includes seven home games, including the rivalry match against Canton McKinley, plus three road games (Canton GlenOak, Lakewood St. Edward and Warren Harding). Several familiar names dot the slate, with just one team that is a first-time opponent.  That one is Farrell, Pennsylvania, from just across the Ohio border.

Aside from Farrell, Massillon will entertain four other non-Ohio teams, two of which are from different countries.  The first, scheduled for Week 3, is NFL Academy-London.  The Academy is a boarding school comprised of European and African-based football players, who are tutored year-round by coaches selected through the NFL.  The Tigers previously faced the Academy in 2024 as part of the 3rd Annual Nike Football Kickoff Classic, winning 35-20.  Played in Beaverton, Oregon, the match was billed as an NFL showcase to promote interest in professional games played in Europe.  While Nike hosted the first game at their headquarters’ practice grounds, the Academy now has the opportunity to face Massillon in a real football arena; i.e., Paul Brown Tiger Stadium.  The other non-U.S. team on the schedule is Football North, from Mississauga, Ontario.

The two other U.S. teams beyond the Ohio border are Canisius, from Buffalo, New York, and Cornerstone Christian, from San Antonio, Texas.  The Lone Star team had such a great time during last year’s trip to Massillon that it requested a return visit.

The most difficult assignments this year are perhaps Ohio teams Cleveland Glenville, Lakewood St. Edward and of course McKinley.  All three had significant playoff success last year, with Glenville capturing the Division IV state championship and St. Eds advancing to the Division I state semifinals.

The ten opponents compiled a 2025 overall mark of 69-42.  Here is the complete 2026 schedule:

  1. Cleveland Glenville – H
  2. Canton GlenOak – A
  3. NFL Academy-London – H
  4. Canisius, NY – H
  5. Lakewood St. Edward – A
  6. Football North (Clarkson), ONT – H
  7. Farrell, PA – H
  8. Cornerstone Christian, TX – H
  9. Warren Harding – A
  10. Canton McKinley – H

Moore will begin his 12th year as head coach of Massillon, where he has compiled an overall record of 119 wins and just 29 losses.  He also holds the mark as being the winningest coach in Tiger history, ahead of Paul Brown’s 80 wins, from 1932 to 1940.  Moore’s significant numbers are as follows:

  • Regular season: 86-20
  • Playoffs: 34-9
  • Playoff regional finals: 6-3
  • Playoff state finals: 1-3
  • Ohio public schools: 86-24
  • Ohio private schools: 16-9
  • Out of state: 17-5
  • Canton McKinley: 10-1
Massillon heads out of the locker room ready to take on Canton McKinley

Last year Massillon finished with a record of 9-4, while losing 27-21 to Big Walnut in the playoff Division II regional finals.  The other three setbacks were to Glenville, Football North and Rabun Gap, Georgia.  The season was highlighted by a fourth consecutive win over Lakewood St. Edward (11-3) and a tenth consecutive win over Canton McKinley (9-3).  In 2023 the Tigers captured the state championship with a 7-2 victory over Akron Hoban.  It was Massillon’s 25th state title overall.

For the 2026 season Massillon returns a wealth of talent, particularly at the skill positions, and is expected to make a deep run in the playoffs.  The offense will benefit from the return of eight full-time starters, including quarterback, running back, fullback, two wide receivers and three linemen.  Seven starters return on defense, including one lineman, three linebackers and three defensive backs, plus several part-time starters.  In addition, the Tigers welcome back their punter and a 4th-year place kicker.

Enjoy the following opponent breakdowns, plus an early preview of Massillon:

Week 1 – Cleveland Glenville – H

  • League: Cleveland Senate Athletic League
  • Playoff Division: DIV
  • 2025 Overall Record: 12-3
  • 2025 Playoff Results: 5-0; defeated Shelby 45-7 to win the state title
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 1 in Division IV; rated 54.1
  • 5-Year Record: 61-13
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 5 qualifications; 24-2 record; DIV state champions in 2022, 2023 and 2025
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 Glenville defeated Massillon 33-27 in overtime
  • Historical Series Massillon leads 3-2
  • Bonus: Returns 5 starters on offense and 3 on defense, including defensive back Jaylen Edward (HM All-Ohio)

Week 2 – Canton GlenOak – H

  • League: Federal League
  • Playoff Division: DI
  • 2025 Overall Record: 2-8
  • 2025 Playoff Results: Did not qualify
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 59 in D1; rated -2.2
  • 5-Year Record: 17-35
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 2 qualifications; 1-2 record
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 Massillon defeated GlenOak 44-10
  • Historical Series Massillon leads 17-4
  • Bonus: Returns 6 starters on offense and 3 on defense, including wide receiver Caydren Saunders, who caught 5 passes 49 yards and a TD in last year’s game.  GlenOak has hired Matt Dennison (191-83) to be its new head coach, replacing Scott Garcia, who may remain as athletic director.

Week 3 – NFL Academy – London – H

  • League: n.a.
  • Playoff Division: n.a. (game does not count in Harbin System)
  • 2025 Overall Record: 3-3
  • 2025 Playoff Results: n.a.
  • 2025 hsratingss.com: n.a.
  • 5-Year Record: unknown
  • 5-Year Playoff History: n.a.
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: Lost 35-21 in 2024
  • Historical Series: Massillon leads 1-0
  • Bonus: The 2024 game was played in Beaverton, Oregon, at the Nike Complex

 Week 4 – Canisus, NY – H

  • League: Monsignor Martin Athletic Association
  • Playoff Division: Ohio equivalent 2
  • 2025 Overall Record: 6-5
  • 2025 Playoff Results: Lost in the first round 41-34 to St. Francis, Hamburg, NY
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 15 in New York; rated 15.9
  • 5-Year Record: 31-24
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 1-5
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: Lost to Massillon 41-7 in 2024
  • Historical Series Massillon leads 3-1
  • Bonus: In 2025 Canisius lost 38-0 to Walsh Jesuit, 55-21 to Ironton and 35-34 to Steubenville.  Returns running back Elijah Kimble (3-star)

Week 5 – Lakewood St. Edward – A

  • League: None
  • Playoff Division: DI
  • 2025 Overall Record: 11-3
  • 2025 Playoff Results: 3-1; lost 28-0 to Olentangy Orange in the state semifinals
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 3 in D1; rated 53.9
  • 5-Year Record: 62-13
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 5 appearances; 24-3 record; state titles in 2021, 2022 and 2023
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 Massillon defeated St. Edward 21-14
  • Historical Series Massillon leads 7-4
  • Bonus: Returns 4 starters on offense (3 lineman) and 4 on defense, including offensive lineman Jack Marquard (1st Team All-Ohio), defensive back Landon Lehmer (2nd Team All-Ohio) and offensive Landon Walkem (HM All-Ohio).  In last year’s game defensive back Landon Lehmer made 11 tackles and defensive lineman BP Paulozzi made six tackles.

Week 6 – Football North, Clarkson Secondary School, Mississauga, Ontario – H

  • League: East Coast Power Prep League (plays exclusively teams from the USA)
  • Playoff Division: 4
  • 2025 Overall Record: 5-4
  • 2025 Playoff Results: n/a
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 668 nationally; rated 34.3
  • 5-Year Record: 22-28
  • 5-Year Playoff History: n/a
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 North defeated Massillon 34-2
  • Historical Series Tied 1-1
  • Bonus: Returns 8 starters on offense (quarterback, 4 lineman, 2 wide receivers) and 6 on defense (2 linemen, 3 defensive backs).  In last year’s game Andre Meltzer caught 2 passes for 49 yards and Teavaun Palmer recorded 9 tackles and 2 tackles-for-loss.

Week 7 – Farrell, PA – H

  • League: District 10 Region 1
  • Playoff Division: Pennsylvania AA (A is highest)
  • 2025 Overall Record: 12-3
  • 2025 Playoff Results: 2-1, lost 43-22 to Southern Columbia in state finals
  • 2025 hsratingss.com: Ranked No. 2 in state AA; rated 20.8
  • 5-Year Record: 52-14
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 6-5; state runner-up in 2025
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: n.a.
  • Historical Series: n.a.
  • Bonus: Returns quarterback Aaron Peques, 146-247-2,128 (14.6 ave.) (68%), 1 int., 23 TDs

Week 8 – Corner Christian, San Antonio, TX – H

  • League: None
  • Playoff Division: None
  • 2025 Overall Record: 6-4
  • 2025 Playoff Results: n.a.
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 282 in Texas; rated 17.5
  • 5-Year Record: 25-25
  • 5-Year Playoff History: n.a.
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 Massillon defeated Cornerstone Christian 45-20
  • Historical Series Massillon leads 1-0
  • Bonus: Returns 11 starters on offense and 6 on defense.  In last year’s game Mateo Rodriguez completed 13 of 17 passes for 86 yards and a TD, Jaylen McKane rushed 13 times for 48 yards and a TD and caught 6 passes for 61 yards, Luke Smith caught 9 passes for 45 yards and a TD and Elijah Fayall recorded 11 tackles.

Week 9 – Warren Harding – A

  • League: All-American Conference
  • Playoff Division: DII
  • 2025 Overall Record: 3-6
  • 2025 Playoff Results: Did not qualify
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 41 in DII; rated 12.5
  • 5-Year Record: 28-29
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 4 appearances; 3-4 record
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 Massillon defeated Harding 42-10
  • Historical Series Massillon leads 62-25-3 (second-longest series)
  • Bonus: Returns 8 starters on offense and 6 on defense, including defensive back Matt Richardson (3rd Team All-Ohio) and offensive lineman Zayvion Smsith (HM All-Ohio.  In last year’s game Makhai Brogden rushed 8 times 27 yards and Richardson caught 2 passes for 36 yards.

Week 10 – Canton McKinley – H

  • League: Federal League
  • Playoff Division: DI
  • 2025 Overall Record: 9-3
  • 2025 Playoff Results: 1-1; lost 25-24 to Mentor in Round 2
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 17 in DI; rated 31.7
  • 5-Year Record: 40-23
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 5 appearances; 8-5 record
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: In 2025 Massillon defeated McKinley 21-14
  • Historical Series vs. McKinley: Massillon leads 78-53-5 (longest series); Massillon has won 13 of the last 14 games and the last 10
  • Bonus: Returns several starters on each side of the line, including running back Kyelin West (1st Team All-Ohio), defensive back Shad Davis (2nd Team All-Ohio) and linebacker Antonio Stevens (3rd Team All-Ohio).  In last year’s game West rushed 19 times for 113 yards and a TD and also caught 4 passes for 4 yards.

The Book on Massillon

  • League: Independent
  • Playoff Division: DII
  • 2025 Overall Record: 9-4
  • 2025 Playoff Results: Lost in the regional finals to Big Walnut, 27-21
  • 2025 hsratings.com: Ranked No. 8 in DII; rated 44.9
  • 5-Year Record: 59-11
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 5 appearances; 21-4 record; advanced to the state finals in 2023; won state championship in 2023; won regional championship in 2022
  • Bonus: Returns 8 starters on offense and 7 on defense (plus 4 part-time starters on defense), including running back Savior Owens (1st Team All-Ohio, 3-star, Michigan State) and wide receiver/defensive back Deontay Malone (2nd Team All-Ohio).
    • Senior quarterback Mandwel Patterson (5’-11”, 145)
    • Senior running back Savior Owens (5’-11”, 210)
    • Senior wide receiver Gio Jackson Jr. (6’-4”, 185)
    • Senior wide receiver Deontay Malone (6’-0”, 175)
    • Senior fullback William Hymes (5’-10”, 220)
    • Senior offensive guard Marcus Garner (6’-3”, 285)
    • Senior offensive center Dayvionne Floyd (6’-2”, 290)
    • Senior offensive guard Kevin Elliott Jr. (6’-0”, 270
    • Senior defensive lineman Joe Karder (6’-4”, 240)
    • Junior inside linebacker De’vaughn Williams (5’-8”, 190)
    • Senior inside linebacker Ke’Aun Fowler (5’-10”, 200)
    • Junior inside linebacker Andrew Holland (6’-0”, 205)
    • Senior outside linebacker Isaac Maxheimer (6’-0”, 205)
    • Senior outside linebacker Christian Culler (5’-8”, 185)
    • Senior outside linebacker R’Celle Hill (6’-0”, 200)
    • Senior outside linebacker Sebastian Harper (5’-10”, 195)
    • Senior safety Braylon Gamble (6’-2”, 190)
    • Senior cornerback Deontay Malone (6’-0”, 170)
    • Senior cornerback Chayce White (6’02”, 185)
    • Senior place kicker Mateo Herrera (5’-9”, 145)
    • Junior punter Rasmus Haines (6’-4”, 170)
Hall of Fame

Massillon Day at the Pro Football Hall of Fame…

Massillon Day at the Pro Football Hall of Fame — Photos

The Canton Pro Football Hall of Famehttps://www.profootballhof.com/ welcomed the Massillon community to their facility for a presentation of the Paul Brown legacy.  It was one of a series of events held by the HOF featuring inductees into the Hall that hail from Stark County, Ohio.

First up was a presentation by the Massillon Museum’s Logan Carr, who covered the timeline of Brown’s coaching career, from his initial playing days at Massillon, to his time spent as a coach of the Tigers, then as coach at Ohio State University followed by the Great Lakes Naval Academy, and finally as coach and general manager of both the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals.

That was followed by a forum featuring Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore, former Tiger and current New York Jets player Dean Clark and Carr.  The trio fielded many questions related to Brown’s influence on the Massillon football program, the success of the program in general and Clark’s time in New York.  The forum was emceed by Jeff Shreve, public address announcer for the Cleveland Browns and the University of Akron.

The house was full during both sessions thanks to the presence of the entire Tiger football team.

Enjoy the photos.

Logan Carr from the Massillon Museum presenting the Paul Brown legacy.

The Massillon football team in the theater.

Event forum was emceed by Jeff Shreve, Cleveland Browns and University of Akron public address announcer.

(l-r) Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore, Logan Carr of the Massillon Museum and Dean Clark, former Tiger and current New York Jets player.

Obie Logo (Large)

Three Tiger Football Players Sign Collegiate Letters-of-Intent

Three Tiger Football Players Sign Collegiate Letters-of-Intent

There’s Early Signing Day, which was this past November, and then there’s the traditional Signing Day.  February 4 was the latter and involved three Massillon football players.  They include Anthony McMullen (Ball State University), Noah Jenkins (Walsh University) and Tra’Yon Williams (Central State University).

Anthony McMullen played running back for the 2025 Tigers and shared duties with teammate Savior Owens.  During the season he rushed 141 times for 710 yards (5.0 ave.) and scored six touchdowns.  He also caught three passes for 42 yards and returned five kickoffs for 102 yards (20.4 ave.).  His best game was against Warren Harding when he rushed 22 times for 158 yards (7.2 ave.) and scored a touchdown on an 11-yard run.  McMullen will play next year for Division I Ball State, an Indiana university that is a member of the Mid-American Conference.  Last year the Cardinals finished with an overall record of 7-5, while going 3-7 in league play.

Noah Jenkins was a backup at free safety to start the season and worked his way into a starting position during Week 7 against Cardinal Ritter, Missouri.  For the season he recorded 13 solo tackles, 15 assists, 2 pass interceptions (returned for 97 yards) and 2 pass breakups.  Against Cornerstone Christian, TX, he was had his best outing numbers-wise with 4 solo tackles and 5 assists, with his nine tackles ranking second best on the team.  Jenkins will play next year for Division II Walsh University.  The Cavaliers last year finished with an overall record of 6-5, including 3-5 in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference.

Tra’Yon Williams was a 2-year starter at free safety.  During his 3-year career he had 56 solo tackles, 33 assists, 6.0 tackles for loss, 1 quarterback sack, 1 pass interception (returned for 30 yards), 3 pass breakups and 1 forced fumble.  Tra’Yon will play next year at Central State University, a Division II college located in Wilberforce, Ohio.  Last season the Marauders posted a record of 3-7 and 3-5 in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

“Early Signing Day” was beneficial for three other players, including Jay’Dyn Williams (Indiana University), Lennox Lemon (Kent State University) and Sam Dossous (Bowling Green State University).

 

(l-r) Noah Jenkins (Walsh University, football), Aiden Koehler (Defiance College, golf), Brody Thornsberry (Malone University, soccer), Francesco Salvino (Indiana Tech, wrestling), Tr’Yon Williams (Central State University, football) (Massillon Washington High School photo)

Obie Logo (Large)

2025 Massillon Football Squad Closes the Books with Award…

2025 Massillon Football Squad Closes the Books with Award Ceremony

It was the final opportunity for coaches, parents and fans to pay one final tribute to the efforts put forth by the players of the 2025 Massillon football team.  The event was held on Tuesday evening at the Washington High School auditorium.

Father Ed Gretchko was on hand once again to open the festivities with an invocation, while he spoke of the players coming together as a community to strive for a common goal.

Next up was outgoing Massillon Tiger Booster Club President Mary Lou Wilton, who was recognized as the first ever woman president of the club.  Mary Lou thanked everyone for their support.  “You (the players) all have made my year very, very special,” she said.  Next year’s president is Jim Mutigli.

Finally, it was a turn at the mic for Coach Nate Moore, the winningest head coach in Tiger history, having just completed his 11th year at the helm.  He opened by thanking everyone: players and coaches and all who contributed to the program, individuals and organizations alike.

“What a tremendous season,” he said, “I’m proud of these guys.  To win nine games with the schedule we had?  Ninth consecutive regional finals.  Beating No. 1 Lakewood St. Edward.  Complete domination of North Canton Hoover and Columbus DeSales.  Nothing better than beating our rivals to the east; ten straight victories is very special and it won’t be forgotten.

“So proud of our senior class (with just 16 players at season’s end).  I want to thank you guys across the board.  It was a rebuilding year.  And the seniors supported that effort.  I love this senior class.  What a fun group.  I will miss you guys.

“Underclassmen, 2026 will be the Year of the Tiger.  We can’t wait to get back at it.  Lead, follow or get out of the way!”

Below are all the award winners:

  • Ja’Dyn Williams

    Most Valuable Player – Ja’Dyn Williams (Sr.) (1st Team All-Ohio)

  • Offensive Player of the Year – Savior Owens (Jr.) (1st Team All-Ohio)
  • Defensive Player of the Year – Ja’Dyn Williams (Sr.)
  • Special Teams Player of the Year – Deontay Malone (Jr.) (2nd Team All-Ohio)
  • Junior Varsity Offensive Player of the Year – Sabastian Harper (Jr.)
  • Junior Varsity Defensive Player of the Year – Jaxson Perry (So.)
  • Junior Varsity Lineman of the Year – Briar Mattox (Jr.)
  • Scout Team Offensive Player of the Year – Sabastian Harper (Jr.)
  • Scout Team Defensive Player of the Year – Jaxson Perry (So.)
  • Scout Team Lineman of the Year – Zay-Shawn Murray (Sr.)
  • Hardnose Award (previously awarded by the Touchdown Club) – Ja’Dyn Williams (Sr.)
  • Carl “Ducky” Schroeder Outstanding Lineman Award – Davionne Floyd (Jr.)
  • Lifter of the Year – Christian Culler (Jr.)
  • Brandon Burlsworth Character Award – Anthony McMullen Jr. (Sr.)
  • John Pizzino, Sr. Academic Football $1,000 Scholarship – Owen Sirgo (Sr.)
  • Paul David Memorial Academic Award – Logan Allman (Sr.)
  • Bob Smith / Bill Snyder Sportsmanship Award – Ja’Dyn Williams (Sr.)
  • Coach Lee Tressel Citizenship Award (Sideliners) – Noah Jenkins (Sr.)
  • Tom Harp Coaches’ Award – Eli Moore (Sr.)
  • Nick Vrotsos Coach of the Year Award – Jeff Kent (Defensive Coordinator)
  • Sam Dossous – 3rd Team All-Ohio

During the event each player was recognized by his respective position coach and also received several momentos related to his participation on the team.

In an emotional moment, Coach Moore said farewell to his son Eli with a long hug.  Although Eli did not reach his goal of becoming the starting quarterback, he was highly instrumental in helping his teammates as both a player on the field and a co-captain leader off to achieve the successes that they did.  For there is nothing better for a football coach than to have mentored his son in a sport that both love.

Just recently, Ja’Dyn Williams was named the recipient of the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association’s Art Teynor Award.  This honor recognizes excellence in football performance, leadership, character and academic achievement.  It is likened to the Mr. Football Award that is annually presented by the OHSAA to the best player in the state of Ohio.

“Ja’Dyn represents everything this award stands for,” Massillon head football coach Nate Moore said in a statement he released earlier. “He is a relentless competitor, a leader in our program, and an outstanding student. His legacy at Massillon will be the type that other great players are measured against.”  A 4.0 student, Williams was also selected All-Stark County, 1st Team All-District and 1st Team All-Ohio.  Next year he will attend Indiana University to both play football and continue onward with his academic career.

Obie Logo (Large)

Four Massillon Players Selected as All-Ohio

Four Massillon Players Named All-Ohio

The Ohio High School Athletic Association has recognized four 2025 Massillon football players with Division II All-Ohio honors.  The group includes junior running back Savior Owens, senior linebacker Ja’Dyn Williams, junior defensive back Deontay Malone and senior defensive lineman Sam Dossous.  The four were members of a squad that finished the season with a 9-4 record and advanced to the regional championship game.

First Team

  • Savior Owens – The 5′-11, 210 lbs., junior running back brings both power and speed to the game.  During the season he carried the ball 222 times for 1,572 yards and scored 21 touchdowns, while averaging 7.1 yards per attempt.  Included in that was eight 100-yard games.  His 293 yards against Big Walnut ranks third in the Massillon record book, just behind Willtrell Hartson’s 324  and Travis McGuire’s 302.  He also ranks 5th with 304 single-game all-purpose yards.  For the season he is 6th in total yards, 7th in yards per game and 7th in touchdowns.  Owens holds an offer from the University of Wisconsin of the Big Ten.
  • Ja’Dyn Williams – Williams was a 3-starter at inside linebacker, standing at 6′-2″, 205 lbs.,   He plays the game right, with high level of speed and physicality, along with great anticipation in responding to the play.  Williams finished the year first on the team in total tackles (108), tackles-for-loss (12.5), quarterback sacks (5.5) and recovered fumbles (5).  In addition, his performance numbers have landed 14 times in the Tiger record book.  Ja’Dyn will play next year at Indiana University of the Big Ten.

Second Team

  • Deontay Malone – Malone was selected as an All-Ohioan at defensive cornerback, but the 6′-0″,175 lb., junior also excelled on offense at wide receiver and special teams as a returner.  During the season he recorded 39 tackles, 3 pass interceptions, 6 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble and 1 fumble recovery.  The speedy receiver was also second on the team with 34 pass receptions for 498 yards and 7 touchdowns.  In addition, he returned a kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown against Columbus DeSales, the third longest in Massillon history.  And he averaged 15.7 yards per punt return, which ranks 9th in the book.  To tap it off, he returned a punt 50 yards against Canton McKinley to both win the game and become the first ever Tiger player to score against the Bulldogs on a punt return.  With a year to go, Malone holds an offer from North Carolina University of the ACC.

Third Team

  • Sam Dossous – The 6′-4″, 220 lbs., senior defensive lineman had a monstrous year after not even starting the first game of the season.  He finished the year 5th on the team with 43 total tackles, 2nd with 10.5 tackles-for-loss and 2nd with 3.0 quarterback sacks.  His quickness off the ball turned him into a devastating disruptor of opponents’ rushing attacks.  Next year Dossous will play for Bowling Green University of the Mid-American Conference.

Savior Owens heads for daylight against Canton McKinley.

Ja’Dyn Williams forces a fumble against Football North.

Deontay Malone on his way to the end zone for the winning score against Canton McKinley.

Sam Dossous causing all kinds of problems for the Cornerstone Christian quarterback.