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“Massillon Against the World”: An Interview with Scott Ryan…

“Massillon Against the World”: An Interview with Scott Ryan and Becca Moore

Most of you have read the book, “Massillon Against the World,” which chronicles the Tigers’ run to the 2024 Ohio Division II State championship.  While not necessarily a game-by-game blow of the season and subsequent playoffs, it deals a lot with the challenges and controversial roadblocks that needed to be overcome in order for the team to achieve its ultimate goal: a state championship.  The book does a great job of this.  But there is just a bit more to the story.  You will find that below in the interview of Scott Ryan and Becca Moore that was conducted exclusively for this website, for which this author thanks them immensely.

The book is a collection of feature stories that surround the season, some related to particular games, some not.  Conversely, it is not a blow-by-blow breakdown of what transpired within each game; i.e., who scored the most points, what were the biggest plays, etc.  Was the idea of using feature stories your intent when you originally planned the book?

• Becca: That’s a great question. To be honest we had a list of questions we agreed upon. We then decided we would do a few interviews and see where that led.
• Scott: I wanted to get into more controversial issues, but the coaches didn’t want to take my bait about Public V. Private schools, so we ended up changing a lot of it. It is probably because, as a fan, I learned how hard the coaches actually work and how much they care about our kids.

Each chapter of the book contains numerous quotes from various team coaches that supplement the topic.  What inspired you to include these quotes and did they have the intended impact on the book content that you anticipated?

• Scott: We both really wanted to do an oral history and that is when you use direct quotes from the people that you interview.
• Becca: I definitely feel like the quotes really inspired the book, and made it easier to read. I believe it had the intended impact – that was to give an inside glimpse of what Massillon Football and coaching to win is really about. You begin to understand the process of what it really takes to be a Massillon football player or coach.

How did you decide who wrote which chapters?

• Scott: Becca tells me what to do and I do it or else.
• Becca: We duked it out. Ha! Actually Scott and I decided chapters and then divided it up, but the Massillon vs. McKinley we couldn’t decide so we both authored it.

What was the most surprising thing you learned during the research and writing processes?

• Becca:  That Scott had quite an experience being a Massillon Tiger fan growing up in Perry.
• Scott: For me, it was learning how private schools really don’t have that different of rules in recruiting. Or at least that is what Nate kept telling me. I’m still not sure I believe him, but Nate approved what I wrote about that. Also, the amount of work those coaches do is insane. I don’t think fans have any idea how hard they work. I know I didn’t.

Is there a section in the book that you love the most?

• Scott: I love the chapter on the OHSAA and I love what Becca wrote about moving to Massillon. Also, I love every quote from Travis McGuire.
• Becca: I love the beginning and the ending and how it all ties together. I really feel like you get perspectives you haven’t gotten in other books about Massillon. Also the ending is just like a movie, in my opinion.

What was the most challenging part of writing the book and what chapter in the book was the most difficult to write?

• Scott: The Massillon Against the World chapter was the last thing finished and that was on me. Every day Becca would text me and say, “Did you finish it yet?” Then when I did, she was like, “Why is it so long?” But it was important to me that I explained why that mantra mattered to this team and this town.
• Becca: I would say Chapter 2, Massillon From the Inside. Because I was being very honest and I wasn’t sure how people would take it. I believe you need to be raw and honest when telling this story and give a glimpse of what it is really like in this job. Most people see the glories and the accolades, they forget what goes into getting there and how it may affect the family.

At times the book contains negative views of various groups and opponents, specifically the allegations of recruiting by parochial schools, instigators of the fights near the end of a couple games and the suspension of Da’One Owens regarding residency.  Did you anticipate any controversy and/or negative feedback from outside parties when you wrote it?

• Becca: I honestly didn’t care. Most people can’t handle the truth and facts and that’s what we wrote.
• Scott: Honestly, we haven’t got a peep of negative feedback. I don’t know if anyone from The Repository read it, but I haven’t heard from them. There isn’t a lie in that book, we researched, fact-checked and did more than our due diligence.

For Becca: You wrote in your first chapter of the difficulty in assimilating into a new community, but in later chapters about now fully embracing it.  How did you make that successful transition?

• Becca: Staying true to myself and what Nate and my goals were when we moved here. Learning to embrace and trust the process and remember at the end of the day you can’t control what other people think and say.

What do you want readers to take away from the book?

• Becca: How much love and support we get from our administration. How much these coaches put into the players on and off the field. How much this town is filled with love and pride and tradition and there is no place like Massillon. As Coach Dan Hackenbracht would say, “We are a small town, with a football problem.”
• Scott: That this town loves this team and that love is pure. I think many people want to add a negative to it. I think there are some negatives to sports, but the love affair of this town and this team is not one of them. Also, I think it’s a great story of the importance of letting a town have its own identity and not trying to make all of America the exact same. Differences are good. Here is what Coach Dave Weber said: “We’re a weirdo town. Not to me, not to the people that live here. But if you’re from outside of here, we are the weirdest town on the frickin’ planet.”

Feel free to add any closing comments.

• Becca: It was such a great experience writing this book with Section 14 guy, aka Scott Ryan. Really, the love and support we got from the Massillon Museum book signing was so overwhelming and I couldn’t be more honored to write on this historic moment that is now captured for future Tigers to read or listen to.
• Scott: We love all the great feedback we have received and the reception has been incredible. We have an audio book out that I edited some fun audio clips in from the last game (https://amzn.to/3zQZ3ob) and we are really proud of that. Also, you can order the book at our website. (https://www.tuckerdspress.com/product-page/massillon-against-the-world). We also want everyone to know Becca and I will be asking questions to Nate Moore on Tiger Talk on YouTube.(https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjpV6YMCMTjJJZc1n9Mi3aw). We don’t promise Nate will be ANSWERING any of those questions.

“Perfect” Tigers Celebrate One Final Time with Ring Ceremony

“Perfect” Tigers Celebrate One Final Time with Ring Ceremony

The 2023 Massillon football team was perfect.  They finished the season undefeated, with a record of 16-0.  They captured the Ohio Division II State Championship with a thrilling victory in the playoff finals.  They finished in the Top 25 of several national rankings.  And along the way they won the hearts of the many thousands that define the Tiger Nation.  But on this warm Thursday evening, the players and staff gathered one final time to celebrate their achievements and receive their coveted championship rings.

Superintendent Paul Salvino was beside himself as he addressed the thousand in attendance and specifically the players during the event.  “I can’t tell you how proud everybody is of you guys,” he said.  “Perfection.  That’s your 2023 Tigers.  You all have represented our school at the highest level.  To our coaches, I can’t thank you enough for your dedication to the best high school football program in America.  To the parents, thank you for trusting the process.  Thank you all.  Go Tigers!

Then it was Head Coach Nate Moore’s turn.  First, he thanked whom he referred to as his most important assistant coach, his wife, Becca, who simply sparkled, to the delight of the crowd.  “The senior class, what an unbelievable job you did,” said Moore.  “You saw how hard they played.  They brought the standard back to where it belongs.”  He said that the state championship just didn’t seem real to him, in spite of the big victory, in spite of the trophy presentation, in spite of the town celebration and regardless of any subsequent events.  But tonight was different.  “After you put this beautiful ring on your finger, it will put the final stamp on the 2023 season.”

Massillon Tiger Football Booster Club Annual Golf Outing

Former Massillon Coach Lee Owens Receives State-wide Honor

 Former Massillon Coach Lee Owens Receives State-wide Honor

by Gary Vogt; Rollie Layfield contributed to this story

On Friday, June 14, 2024, Lee Owens, along with five other outstanding Ohio high school football coaches, was inducted into the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.  Joining Lee in the Hall were Ron Berdis (Youngstown Chaney), John Livengood (Norwalk St. Paul), Andy Olds (Kings), Dan McSorley (Clinton Massie) and Bob Jacoby (Columbus DeSales).

Owens was the head coach at Massillon from 1988 to 1991 and had rescued the football program following a few years of lackluster seasons.  Four years in a row the Tigers had committed the unpardonable sin of losing to Canton McKinley.  Something had to change.  And that change was Lee Owens.

During his four years at the helm his teams compiled a record of 35-14 and won three out of four games against Canton McKinley.  His teams also qualified for the playoffs three times and posted a 6-3 record, including two regional championships.

During his first year Owens’ team played its final game in Tiger Stadium on grass, or rather mud, defeating the Bulldogs 10-7 in overtime.  Recognizing the impact the playing conditions had on such an important game, the following year he launched a fundraising effort to install an artificial surface, which would be the first in the county and one of the first in the state for high school football.  The product selected was Omni Sand Turf, which was innovative at the time.  Thus, the new surface was ready for the 1989 season, but first christened in conjunction with the Ohio High School State All-Star Game.

In 1990 he led a project to construct the 3-level East Press box, which convinced the powers to be at the Ohio High School Athletic Association to bring football playoff state championship games to Massillon.  Tigertown is forever grateful to Lee Owens for what he did for the community.

Following Massillon, he was an assistant coach at Ohio State for three years and parlayed that experience into a head coaching position at the University of Akron, a post he held for nine years.  In 2000 the Zips finished first in the MAC East and in 2003 they were second.  But his greatest achievement there might surely have been making an immediate impact on player graduation rate, improving it from 18% to 83%.

His next eighteen seasons were spent leading the Ashland University Eagles of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.  His overall record there was a very fine 123-44, with his teams capturing four league championships and six NCAA Division II playoff qualifications.  Four times he was named Conference Coach of the Year.

During the recent event, each inductee was introduced by a significant colleague and friend in their life and provided an opportunity to deliver an acceptance speech.  Each, of course, thanked family and supporters, while also speaking of winning; not football games, but winning in life.  The message was consistent within the group, with the formula for success being (1) belief in God and the USA, (2) support from family, (3) caring about people, especially young people, (4) remaining consistent in your beliefs, and (5) genuine love for all people you come in contact with.

The Banquet Committee, which included Massillon Junior High Principal Tony Carr, must have known something, as they saved the best for last.  And he did not disappoint.  The presenter for Lee Owens was past Booster Club president and long-time Tiger supporter Rollie Layfield.  Rollie, sporting his orange Tiger blazer introduced Coach Owens by pointing out his importance to family, as coaches spend countless hours away from their loved ones.  Rollie chronicled the list of Massillonians who contacted Lee to persuade him to take the Tiger job.  Lee, who highly cherishes loyalty, had taken the Lancaster job just one year earlier and felt an extreme gratitude to them.  So, convincing him to leave Lancaster was not going to be easy.  First to call was Cincinnati Bengals General Manager Paul Brown, but Lee declined the offer.  Then Ohio State Coach Earle Bruce called and again Lee declined.  Next, Tiger coach Ducky Schroeder, but with no success.  Former Massillon and Kansas Head Coach Chuck Mather tried, with the same result.  But then, there was Massillon School Superintendent Al Paris.  Al (who was in attendance at the banquet) must have had the correct approach, as Lee accepted the Massillon job.  Needless to say, football community was thrilled at Lee’s decision to become Massillon’s Head Football Coach.

Owens’ acceptance speech was outstanding.  He first thanked his family: his wife Dianne, son Ben a West Point grad and decorated Army vet, son Andy who is a coach at Richwood North Union High School, daughter Leanne, who is married to Jake White, who owns RES Auction Services, and daughter Molly, who is married to Rob Mahaney, the head coach at Shelby High School.  He also thanked a long list of friends, coaches and supporters who were significant in growing his career.

In typical Lee Owens fashion, he then spoke passionately about the state of football in our country.  He is concerned that the transfer portal and NIL has damaged college football.  Players used to come to college to (1) get an education and (2) play football.  Now they come to be millionaires.  But he credited football with helping so many.  “We need football today more than at any time in our history,” he said.

He concluded his acceptance speech with the following thought: “God bless you and God bless football!

Lee is the fourteenth Massillonian to be inducted into the Coaches Hall of Fame.

The following appeared in the induction program.

2024 Massillon Football Schedule Released

2024 Massillon Football Schedule Released

NOTE: This article has been updated with redacted information in Week 8 which now remains Open. – August 21, 2024 ES

Defending Division II state champion Massillon is in preparation to embark on a journey to defend its title with perhaps the most difficult regular season schedule they have ever faced in their 130+ years of football.  Every opponent on the slate was a playoff qualifier last year (except the one from Canada) and three of them captured state championships.  Here is the schedule:

1. NFL Academy – London – N
2. Canton GlenOak – A
3. Bergen Catholic, NJ – H
4. Canisius, NY – H
5. Lakewood St. Edward – A
6. DeMatha Catholic, MD – H
7. Football North (Clarkson), ONT – H
8. (Open date)
   
9. Warren Harding – A
10. Canton McKinley – H

The Tiger program has steadily improved since Moore was hired nine years ago.  Last season his team captured its first “playoff” state championship with a 16-0 record, following a 55-7 win over Cincinnati Anderson in the Division II state semifinals and a 7-2 victory over Akron Hoban in the finals, adding to 24 previous state titles awarded by the sportswriters.  Not surprisingly, the corresponding success and national ranking, coupled with the fact that Massillon is not in a league, has created an unprecedented challenge in finding opponents, as many teams shy away from scheduling the Tigers.  Only four teams return from last season’s slate, highlighted by Lakewood St. Edward.  And they would not have played the Tigers this year unless they hosted the game, having traveled to Massillon the last three times.

So Massillon, with just four Ohio schools inked, is faced with more of a national schedule, with teams from New Jersey, New York, Maryland and Florida, plus a squad from Ontario that is an all-star group designed to play exclusively U.S. opponents.  There is even a team from Europe.  This undoubtedly creates quite a challenge.  Fortunately, each of these teams is expected to win their fair share of games, which bodes well for playoff computer points.  Even if they falter a few times, they are almost certain to make the playoffs.  And it’s in the playoffs that the local Ohio teams cannot duck them.

The Tigers will open with a pair of road games, including NFL Academy-London and Canton GlenOak.  The match against London is sponsored by Nike as part of their annual Kickoff Classic and will be played on a Thursday evening at the Nike sports complex, which is located in Beaverton, Oregon.  It will also be televised on the NFL YouTube Channel and the NFL Network (the following weekend).  The NFL, which hopes to increase football participation in Europe at the high school level, has partnered with Nike for this game.

Bergen Catholic provides the Week 3 home opener.  They have a record over the past five years of 54-7.  Last season they finished 11-1 and captured the Non-Public Class A championship.  Next up is Canisius, New York, which visits Massillon for the fourth time in a series in which the Tigers hold a 2-1 edge.

Back on the road, the orange and black travels to Lakewood St. Edward, the 3-time defending Division 1 state champion.  The Eagles’ coach Tom Lombardo has had enough of Paul Brown Tiger Stadium and got his way to host the game.  Massillon won the last two encounters, by scores of 31-28 and 15-13.

The Tigers return home for the next three games to face DeMatha from Maryland, Football North (Clarkson) from Ontario, Canada, and Miami Edison, Florida.  DeMatha’s 5-year record is 35-13, which includes a pair of wins last year over St. Johns College, DC, a team that Massillon defeated last year.  DeMatha is a common opponent of St. Edward.  Football North also plays St. Eds regularly, in addition to Cleveland St. Ignatius.  They are a Canadian all-star team that plays by American rules and only schedules U.S. teams.  Edison was a late edition to the schedule and they occupy Week No. 8.

The Tigers will wrap up the season with a trip to Warren Harding and a then home game against traditional rival Canton McKinley, Federal League co-champions last year.

So, it appears that Massillon will face a monumental schedule this year.  Fortunately, they return ten starters on offense, needing to replace as starters just a couple lineman.  Defensively, they have just three players returning, but several others saw significant duty when the games were on the line.

Enjoy the following opponent breakdowns, plus a preview of the Tigers:

Week 1 – NFL Academy London

• The NFL constantly strives to promote American football in Europe and this year has invited Massillon to participate in a game against NFL Academy London. Staged in conjunction with Nike, the game will be played at the Nike sports complex, which is located in Beaverton, on Thursday, August 22, at 3:30 pacific time.  The team is expected to fly to Oregon on the Tuesday prior to the game, practice on Wednesday, play on Thursday and then return to Ohio on Friday.
• The game will not be considered directly in the overall tally of Harbin points for playoff qualification purposes. However, Massillon will receive a seasonal average number of computer points for that week.
• Per the NFL website: “The NFL Academy is a major global initiative by the NFL and it aims to provide full-time high-school education alongside intensive training in American football under the guidance of a world class coaching staff. This is a key pillar in the NFL’s investment in global football development and creating pathways for international talent.”
• Over a thousand high students from across Europe try out for the Academy each year, with the goal of earning scholarships to American universities and eventually finding their ways to the NFL. Eighty will secure spots on the team.  There, they receive a heavy education in American football, along with taking a full load of high school-level academics.  They also adhere to the age limits that American schools use for playing eligibility.
• The Academy this year has played several spring games against other European teams. To date they are 4-0, having outscored the opposition on average, 57-12.
• The game will be held on August 22 at Ronaldo Field, which is located on the campus of the Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 pm Oregon time (6:30 pm Ohio time).  It also will be aired live on the NFL YouTube Channel and via delay broadcast on the NFL Network on Saturday, August 31

Week 2 – Canton GlenOak – A

• League: Federal League
• Playoff Division: 1
• 2023 Overall Record: 7-5
• 2023 Playoff Results: Lost 35-0 to Lakewood St. Edward in Round 2
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 29 in D1; rated 29.6
• 5-Year Record: 15-36 (.294)
• 5-Year Playoff History: 4 appearances; 1-4 record
• Last Time vs. Massillon: Lost 56-7 to Massillon in 2023
• Historical Series Massillon vs. Canton GlenOak: 15-4
• Bonus: Lost a lot through graduation; returns alternate senior quarterback Adrian Burt; against Massillon he rushed for 54 yards and scored one touchdown; returns 3 of 4 linebackers.

Week 3 – Bergen Catholic, NJ – H

• League: New Jersey Super Football Conference – United Red Division
• Playoff Division: Non-Public Group A
• 2023 Overall Record: 11-1
• 2023 Playoff Results: Defeated Delbarton to win the Non-Public A state championship
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 1 in New Jersey; rated 62.8
• 5-Year Record: 54-7
• 5-Year Playoff History: State champions in 2021, 2022 and 2023; 9-1 record (no playoffs in 2020)
• Last Time vs. Massillon: n/a
• Historical Series Massillon vs. Bergen Catholic: 0-0
• Bonus: Returns 7 starters on offense and 7 on defense, including No. 1 quarterback Dominic Campanile (131-221-2,208, 30 TDs), No. 2 running back Dante Kain (69-398-5.8, 16 TDs), No. 1 wide receiver Quincy Porter (41-969, 16 TDs), No. 2 wide receiver (35-334, 3 TDs), No. 3 tackler Ethan Cohall Jr. (27-34, 5.5 TFLs) and No. 4 tackler Kaden Irby-Mason (25-35, 9.0 TFLs). In 2023 lost to Chaminade, FL, 61-21; in 2022 defeated Saguaro, AZ, 28-7; in 2021 defeated Akron Hoban, 42-7; Opens the season with IMG Academy.

 Week 4 – Canisius, NY – H

• League: Monsignor Martin Athletic Association
• Playoff Division: Ohio equivalent 2
• 2023 Overall Record: 5-6
• 2023 Playoff Results: Lost 21-20 to St. Francis, NY, in the semifinals
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 33 in New York; rated 14.5
• 5-Year Record: 27-22
• 5-Year Playoff History: 4 appearances (no games in 2020); 5-3 record; in 2019 defeated Cardinal Hayes (Bronx) 25-24 to capture the Catholic State Championship
• Last Time vs. Massillon: Lost to Massillon 42-7 in 2022
• Historical Series Massillon vs. Canisius: 2-1
• Bonus: In the 2022 game vs. Massillon, Jalen Slaughter completed 7 of 16 passes for 141 yards and 3 TDs. Kyler Wiggins caught 2 passes for 82 yards and a TD and Ja’Meir Gamble caught 2 for 43 yards and a TD and rushed one time for 16 yards.  Peytton Mitchell rushed 4 times for 31 yards.  Mike Wright recorded 2.0 tackles for loss.

Week 5 – Lakewood St. Edward – A

• League: None
• Playoff Division: 1
• 2023 Overall Record: 15-1
• 2023 Playoff Results: Defeated Springfield 31-21 to capture the state championship
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 1 in D1; rated 66.6
• 5-Year Record: 62-7 (.899)
• 5-Year Playoff History: 5 appearances; 21-2 record; state titles in 2021, 2022 and 2023
• Last Time vs. Massillon: Lost to Massillon 15-13 in 2023
• Historical Series Massillon vs. St. Edward: 5-4
• Bonus: 3-time defending Division 1 state champs.  Finished No. 31 nationally in 2023.  Returns 3 starters on offense and 5 on defense, plus backup quarterback Casey Csanyi (6’-2”, 180). Against Massillon last year Csanyi completed 14 of 29 passes for 153 yards and two touchdowns.

Week 6 – DeMatha Catholic, MD – H

• League: Washington Catholic Athletic Conference
• Playoff Division: League Playoffs
• 2023 Overall Record: 9-2
• 2023 Playoff Results: Lost 7-0 to Our Lady of Good Counsel, MD, in the 2^nd round
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 2 in Maryland; rated 62.0
• 5-Year Record: 35-13
• 5-Year Playoff History: League runner-up in 2022 and 2023; 2-4 record
• Last Time vs. Massillon: n/a
• Historical Series Massillon vs. DeMatha: 0-0
• Bonus: In 2023, defeated Springfield, OH, 35-7 and St. John’s College, DC, 21-14 in the regular season and 21-3 in the playoffs.

Week 7 – Football North (Clarkson), ONT – H

• League: East Coast Power Prep League (plays exclusively teams from the USA)
• Playoff Division: n/a (game does not count in Harbin System)
• 2023 Overall Record: 3-3
• 2023 Playoff Results: n/a
• 2023 Calpreps.com:
• 5-Year Record: 9-21 (no games in 2020)
• 5-Year Playoff History: n/a
• Last Time vs. Massillon: n/a
• Historical Series Massillon vs. 0-0
• Bonus: Regular plays Lakewood St. Edward and Cleveland St. Ignatius. In 2023, lost to St. Edward 35-15 and St. Ignatius 24-21.  In 2022, defeated Mentor and lost to Akron Hoban, St. Edward and St. Ignatius.

Week 8 – (Open date)

Week 9 – Warren Harding – A

• League: All-American Conference
• Playoff Division: 2
• 2023 Overall Record: 5-7
• 2023 Playoff Results: Lost 24-21 to Hudson in Round 2.
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 23 in D2; rated 24.4
• 5-Year Record: 25-29 (.463)
• 5-Year Playoff History: 4 appearances; 4-4 record
• Last Time vs. Massillon: Lost 48-14 to Massillon in 2022
• Historical Series Massillon vs. Warren: 60-25-3 (second-longest series)
• Bonus: Returns 3 starters on offense and five on defense, including quarterback Coleman. Against Massillon last year Coleman completed 9 of 20 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns

Week 10 – Canton McKinley – H

• League: Federal League
• Playoff Division: 1
• 2023 Overall Record: 9-4
• 2023 Playoff Results: Lost 41-27 to Lakewood St. Edward in Round 3
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 109 in D1; rated 42.3
• 5-Year Record: 37-21 (.638)
• 5-Year Playoff History: 5 appearances; 7-5 playoff record
• Last Time Massillon vs. Massillon: Lost 35-0 to Massillon in 2023
• Historical Series vs. McKinley: 76-53-5; Massillon has won 12 of the last 13
• Bonus: Returns 7 starters on offense and 5 on defense, including 4-star linebacker / wide receiver Dante McClellan (6’-2, 190) (2^nd Team All-Ohio), 3-star offensive lineman Dior Garner (6’-4, 285), 2-star running back Nino Hill (6’-0, 200) and 2-star wide receiver Keith Quincy (6’02, 180) (2^nd Team All-Ohio). Last year against Massillon McClellan recorded four tackles and caught one pass, Hill rushed 8 times for 2 yards and Quincy caught 4 passes for 35 yards.  Running back Jamar Johnson transferred in from GlenOak.

The Book on Massillon

• League: Independent
• Playoff Division: 2
• 2023 Overall Record: 16-0
• 2023 Playoff Results: Defeated Akron Hoban 7-2 to capture the Division 2 State Title
• 2023 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 1 in D2; Rated 69.7
• 5-Year Record: 63-8 (.887)
• 5-Year Playoff History: 5 appearances; 23-4 record; advanced to the state finals in 2019, 2020 and 2023; state champion in 2023; regional champion in 2022
• Bonus: Coming off a 16-0 season and Division 2 State Championship; defeated Division 1 State Champion Lakewood St. Edward for the second year in a row; returns 10 starters on offense and 3 on defense, plus the punter, the kicker, the long snapper and the short snapper; returning starters include:
  • Quarterback Jalen Slaughter (6’-0, 163); 4-year starter; 34 of 60 for 685 yards and 9 TDs; 4,112 career yards and 49 career TDs
  • Running back Ja’Meir Gamble (5’-9, 190); Honorable Mention All-Ohio; 142 attempts for 948 yards and 5 TDs
  • Running Peytton Mitchell (6’-0, 200); 71 carries for 444 yards and 2 TDs
  • Running back Mylen Lenix (5’-10, 203); 64 carries for 332 yards and 6 TDs
  • Wide receiver Jacques Carter (5’-10, 165); 2^nd Team All-District; 41 receptions for 796 yards and 8 TDs
  • Wide receiver Braylyn Toles (5’-8, 145); 3-year starter; Honorable Mention All-District; 46 receptions for 619 yards and 8 TDs
  • Tight end Deangelo Zimmerman (6’-1, 216); 9 receptions for 136 yards and 1 TD
  • Offensive lineman Nolan Davenport (6’-6, 280); 3-year starter; 2^nd Team All-Ohio
  • Offensive lineman Mike Looney (6’-0, 243); 3-year starter
  • Offensive lineman Gavin Kappes (5’-11, 250); 2-year starter
  • Defensive lineman Michael Wright Jr. (5’-10, 280); 1^st Team All-Ohio; 4-year starter; 28.0 tackle points; 15.5 tackles-for-loss; 10.5 quarterback sacks
  • Linebacker Vito McConnell (6’-4, 215); 27.5 tackle points; 4.0 tackles for loss; 3 pass interceptions
  • Defensive back Tyler Hackenbracht (6’-2, 207); Honorable Mention All-Ohio; 4^th leading tackler with 38.5 tackle points; 3 pass interceptions; punter
  • Kicker Mateo Herrera (5’-7, 128); 22 of 22 extra points
• Current streaks
  • Wins, all games: 16
  • Wins, regular season games: 18
  • Wins, public schools: 23
  • Wins, home games: 18
  • Scoring in games, offense: 202

2024 Massillon Football Season Officially Kicks Off

2024 Massillon Football Season Officially Kicks Off

 The upcoming Tiger football season is officially underway, christened by the annual Summer Kickoff Event, which was held at Eagles 190.  In front of a packed house of avid Massillon fans, Head Coach Nate Moore and his staff reviewed the challenges ahead within the upcoming schedule and spoke about the returning players and promising varsity newcomers.  The event was led by this year’s Massillon Tiger Booster Club President, Ed Starcher.

The Tigers enter the campaign on the heels of a 2023 Division II state championship, during which they posted a 16-0 record, including a victory in the regular season over Division I state champion Lakewood St.  Edward.  According to Moore, all of that that makes Massillon the undisputed champion of the entire state, regardless of division.  But he was quick to underscore that the Tigers are not satisfied with winning their first ever playoff title (to go along with 24 other crowns) and they plan, with the outstanding talent on the roster this year, to make another deep run at the title.

“It’s great to be here,” said Moore.  “Massillon is a special place.  Home to the 2023 state champions.  In an era when it’s not supposed to happen.  A public school is not supposed to win that.  But try to find another city like Massillon that’s doing what we’re doing.  I’m proud to be the head coach at Massillon.  But we’ve now turned the page.”

Moore then reviewed the 2024 schedule, providing the following remarks.

• Week 1 – Nothing to report at this time.
• Week 2 – at Canton GlenOak – Glad that the series continues. As long as Coach Scott Garcia is there, this shouldn’t change.
• Week 3 – Bergen Catholic, New Jersey – Once again, a challenging home opener, this time against the best team in New Jersey. A national Top 25 team.  Big, talented and very well coached.
• Week 4 – Canisius, New York – Fourth time on the schedule. The Tigers lead the series 2-1.
• Week 5 – at Lakewood St. Edward – Division I state champs the last three years. A national Top 25 team.  This has turned into quite a rivalry.
• Week 6 – DeMatha Catholic, Maryland – On of the best teams in the D.C. area. National Top 25.  Big up front.  Very skilled.
• Week 7 – Football North (Clarkson), Ontario – This is not a typical Canadian team, like Massillon has seen before. They play a U.S. schedule.  This is a good football team.  Several Division 1 players.  Best players in Canada.
• Week 8 – Nothing to report at this time. Moore is disappointed that Austintown Fitch “tapped out” and dropped the Tigers from the schedule.  Apparently, they had enough.
• Week 9 – at Warren Harding – This is the final game with the current contract. Discussions to continue the series are underway.
• Week 10 – Canton McKinley – The greatest game in high school football. At least for us, this will always be the featured game on the schedule.  The Bulldogs return a fair number of good players.  It should be a much better game.  Great players all over the field.  Ecstatic that it is at home this year.

Next up were the various position coaches.

Dan Studer (strength and conditioning) – The off season has ended.  The effort and production was on par with last year.  Great attendance.  The lifting numbers are well up, with four players squatting over 500 lbs.  Conducted speed training.  Three players are sub 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash.  Moving into pre-season this week.

Joey Studer / Chris Spruill (defensive line) – There will be some new names this year lining up next to 4-year returning starter Michael Moore Jr.  A young group.  They have a lot of heart and Tiger pride.  Now we’re going to get them technically sound.

Bo Grunder (cornerbacks), also subbing for Dan Hackenbracht (safeties) – Tyler Hackenbracht returns at free safety, with the other spot currently open.  Eager to see who wants to make a name for himself.  At corner, Lennox Lemon and Daylan Pringle are showing promise and will get the first look.

Dave Weber (outside linebackers) – Vito McConnell returns at the position, with many young players in the wings.  But there are a lot of promising kids.

Spencer Leno (inside linebackers / defensive coordinator) – A lot of open spots.  Looking for players who can check the boxes for knowledge, trust, effort, physicality and consistency.  The defensive goals this year is to hold opponents to 17 points or less, limit the run to 100 yards, limit the pass to 150 yards, no big plays, create turnovers and get off the field on third down.

J.P. Simon (offensive line) along with Chip Robinson – J.P. has moved from defense to offense this year.  “We’re going to come off the ball.  We’re going to be physical.  We’re going to win games.  We’re coming for another state title.  There’s no letup.”  Nolan Davenport, Michael Looney and Gavin Kappes return and were either starters or saw significant action last year.  Chris Fair is also in the mix.

Travis McGuire (running backs) – “I’m excited about my room.  I have a lot of guys.  My problem is who to give the ball to in the new offense.”  Returning starters are Jameir Gamble, Mylen Lenix and Peyton Mitchell.

Cale Miller (wide receivers) – “I’m blessed with riches every single year.  I just try not to screw it up!”  The Tigers return starters Braylyn Toles, Jacques Carter and Ricardo Wells.  “Plenty of experience.”  We also have some young guys coming up.”  Gio Jackson and Deonte Malone.

Alex Wood (quarterbacks / offensive coordinator) – “Thank you to the Tigers Booster Club.  I’m excited to be here.  Jalen Slaughter, a 4-year returning starter, is in the lead for the quarterback position based on his experience.  Two other players are in the mix, including sophomore Manny Patterson and junior Eli Moore.  Patterson is on the smaller side, but throws a nice football.  And he can run.  Eli has come a long way and will push the other two guys.  Look for a different style of offense this year, in both the run and pass games.  It will be explosive.  Multiple formations and personnel.  The scheme is to get the ball into the hands of the guys that can make plays.  The ultimate goal is to score at least 28 points in every game.  But in order to that, the Tigers will need to run AND throw well.

Moore wrapped up his presentation by giving kudos to the coaching staff, in particular to the fact that ten members are former Tiger players, making it very unique.  Because of that, the coaches are able to pass the Massillon traditions onto the players.  “Our kids will stay in the fight longer,” he emphasized.  “Credit the work and investment of our coaching staff.  Our kids understand the tradition.  It means more to them.  Any of these guys (coaches) can be hired at any school in the country.  But they want to be here.”

The next formal event will be the ring ceremony, which is scheduled for June 27 at Paul Brown Tiger Stadium at 6:00 pm.

There will also be a home 7-on-7 scrimmage at noon on June 25.

Go Tigers.

2024 Lift-a-thon Results

2024 Lift-a-thon Results

A good crowd was on hand in the WHS gym for the annual Steve Studer Memorial Lift-a-thon.  It was surely an energetic and muscle-burning event, yet just one more step to the finish line as the Tigers continue the preparation to defend their 2023 Division II state championship.  Once again, Strength Coach Dan Studer did a fantastic job of organizing and conducting the event.

Three lifts were performed by each participant: clean lift, bench press and squat. Each lifter selected his preferred weight for each lift and then attempted as many lifts 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. Here are the winners:

• 140 lb. weight class – Gregory Corsale (So.)
• 150 lb. weight class – Richard Harris (Jr.)
• 160 lb. weight class – LoQuan Young (Sr.)
• 170 lb. weight class – Griffiths (Sr.)
• 180 lb. weight class – Lennox Lemon (Jr.)
• 190 lb. weight class – Jameir Gamble (Sr.)
• 200 lb. weight class – Ransom Els (So.)
• 215 lb. weight class – Savior Owens (So.)
• 230 lb. weight class – Vito McConnell (Sr.)
• Heavy weight class – Michael Looney (Sr.)
• Super heavyweight class – Michael Wright Jr. (Sr.)

140 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) McIntyre, (1) Gregory Corsale, (3) Stephens

150 lb. weight class -(l-r) (2) Braylyn Toles, (1) Richard Harris Jr., (3) Chayce White

160 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Manny Patterson, (1) Lo’Quan Young, (3) Nehemiah Stone

170 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Deontay Malone, (1) Griffiths, (3) Jacques Carter and Eli  Moore (tie)

180 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Lucas Shertzer, (1) Lennox Lemon, (3) Ricardo Wells

190 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Francesco Salvin0, (1) Jameir Gamble, (3) Tra’yon Williams

200 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Jadyn Williams, (1) Ransom Els, (3) Stephen  Reinhart

215 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Peytton Mitchell, (1) Savior Owens, (3) Deangelo Zimmerman

230 lb. weight class – (l-r) (2) Logan Allman, (1) Vito McConnell, (3) Martin

Heavyweight class – (l-r) (2) Andrew Brumfield, (1) Michael Looney, (3) Andrew Robinson

Super heavyweight class – (l-r) (2) Chris Fair, (1) Michael Wright Jr., (3) Nolan Davenport

The following photos are by Rob Engelhardt

The following photos are by Don Engelhardt