AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementCrooksville graduated senior Grayson Houk, pictured with his acceptance letter, recently became the first student in school history to earn admission to the Naval Academy. The school record holder in the 400 meters, who qualified for the Division IV state meet, plans to major in either nuclear or aerospace engineering. He was one of 1,200 applicants accepted out of more than 16,000. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Zanesville sophomore Chloe Wahl competes in the pole vault during the Division III state track and field meet on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Wahl finished tied for sixth to earn All-Ohio honors. (Kurt Snyder/USA Today Network-Ohio)Morgan's Braylon Miller, middle, and Fairfield Union's Logan Osborn, right, race down the backstretch of the 400 meters during the Division III state track and field meet on Saturday, June 7, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Miller shattered his own personal and Muskingum Valley League record to place second in :44.48; Osborn was sixth in a personal-record :48.90. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)John Glenn's Ashlynn Kuklica and Napoleon's Gwenyth Huddle race toward the finish line in the 1600 meters during the Division III state track and field meet on Saturday, June 7, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Both runners ran 4:51.33, but Kuklica edged her in a photo finish to place second overall behind champion Sofia Szolosi, of Athens. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Sheridan senior Creed Hill, who throws the shot, will compete in the Division II state meet on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Hill, an All-Ohioan in football who will play at Saginaw State (Michigan), has added some five feet to his shot distance as a senior. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)West Muskingum's Jaxson Prang runs the final leg of the 4x100 relay to secure a seventh-place finish in Division IV at the OHSAA state track and field championships on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus.. (Troy Magers/Special to the USA Today Network-Ohio)Maysville's Bella Van Wey throws the shot in the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. Van Wey, who is signed with Bowling Green, placed second overall with a top throw of 42-4 1/2. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Maysville sophomore Emma Tamasovich participates in the high jump finals during the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. Tamasovich placed fifth to earn All-Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Ridgewood's 4x400 team of Lorryn Werntz, top left, Molly Maple, top right, Kenzie Bice, bottom left, and Jayvn Gress stand with their silver medals for second place in the 4x400 meters on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Ridgewood senior Kenzie Bice hugs teammate Lorryn Werntz, left, after finishing second in the 4x400 relay in the Division IV state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. The two also helped the 4x200 place fourth. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Philo's Aidan Mahon hits the sand durign the finals of the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Maysville senior Bella Van Wey flexes from the podium after placing runner-up in the shot during the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Ridgewood's Lorryn Werntz hugs teammate Javyn Gress after finishing second in the 4x400 relay in the Division IV state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. The Generals finished in 4:01.0. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)Morgan senior Braylon Miller runs in the 200 meters during the Jerry Neal Invitational on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Maysville High School Athletic Complex. Miller is seeded third in the 400 enter the Division III state track and field meet on June 5-6 at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)West Muskingum junior Carter Smith hopes to hit his peak in the high jump at the Division IV state track and field meet on June 3-4 at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Smith, who has cleared 6-foot, 4-inches this season, also plays football and basketball. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)John Glenn players stand with the runner-up trophy following a 1-0 loss to Licking Valley in a Division IV regional final at the Philo Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, Ohio. John Glenn ended a 26-6 season one win shy of the state tournament. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)John Glenn sophomore Kendall Snider throws a pitch during a 1-0 loss to Licking Valley in a Division IV regional final on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Philo Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, Ohio. Snider tossed a three-hitter and allowed no earned runs as the Muskies ended a 26-6 season. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Licking Valley players douse Emma Flowers, far left, with water after securing the final out of a 1-0 win against John Glenn in a Division IV regional final on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Philo Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, Ohio. Valley, now 26-0, advanced to the state tournament as Emory Whisner tossed a three-hitter and escaped a two-on, none-out jam in the seventh to secure the victory. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Senior pitcher Gracie Hutton prepares to throw to first base during Tri-Valley's 11-4 loss to Plain City Jonathan Alder in a Division III regional semifinal on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Berne Union High School in Sugar Grove, Ohio. The Scotties, playing in their first regional since 2010, finished one win shy of their first Elite Eight. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Zanesville High School Subh Patel will participate in the Division II state tennis tournament on May 28-29 at the Linder Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. Patel, who picked up the game as a freshman at the urging of older brother Druv, is believed to be the first Blue Devil to reach the state in tennis since Ty Tucker in the mid-1980s. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Sheridan coach Mark Paxton consoles senior Haylie Clifton following a Division III East/Southeast District final against Dover on May 23 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Nova Carpenter, of Sheridan, tags out a runner at third base against Dover during a Division III East/Southeast District final on May 23 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Sheridan's Mrgan Ranck fires a pitch against Dover during a Division III East/Southeast District final at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Sheridan catcher Avery Hall looks into the dugout during a Division III East/Southeast District final against Dover on May 23 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Ava Neal celebrates after the final out of Tri-Valley's 11-5 win against Unioto on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a Division III East/Southeast district final at Logan High School. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Ayla Hittle is all smiles after receiving her championship medal following Tri-Valley's 11-5 win against Unioto on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a Division III East/Southeast district final at Logan High School. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Unioto's McKenna Williams, left, is consoled by Macie Cox following an 11-5 loss on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a Division III East/Southeast district final at Logan High School. The Shermans finished 18-12. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Ava Neal, left, and Ayla Hittle get excited after Gabby Prati's second home run of the game in a Division III East/Southeast district final on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Logan High School in Logan, Ohio. Tri-Valley won, 11-5, to secure its first regional bid in 16 years. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)in a Division III East/Southeast district final on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Logan High School in Logan, Ohio. Tri-Valley won its first regional in 16 years. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Sheridan pitcher Megan Ranck fires a pitch during the second inning of a 6-0 loss to Dover in a Division III East/Southeast District final on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Ranck, who battled sickness the day of the game, allowed one earned run in a complete game as Sheridan finished a 20-8 season. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Dalena Rollison, of Crooksville, slides into second base with a double during a 4-0 loss to Garaway in a Division VI East District final on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Cambridge City Park in Cambridge, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Crooksville's Dalena Rollison celebrates after hitting a double during a 4-0 loss to Garaway in a Division VI East District final on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Cambridge City Park in Cambridge, Ohio. Rollison had two of the Ceramics' six hits. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Crooksville's Dalena Rollison consoles senior Mylin Driggs following a 4-0 win against Garaway in a Division VI East District final on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Cambridge City Park in Cambridge, Ohio. Driggs is one of three senior starters graduating from back-to-back district finalists. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)West Muskingum's Carter Smith takes a handoff during the 4x400 relay during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Sheridan senior Creed Hill sets a personal record in the shot with a throw of 55-3 1/4 during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. It was the second-longest throw in Sheridan history, trailing only former state champion Eli Kiener in 1999. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Zanesville's Camron Willett competes in the 110 hurdles during the LCL-Buckeye Championships held at Granville High School on Friday, May 15, 2026. (Michael Lehmkuhle/Special the USA Today Network)River View's Parker Andrews and Morgan's Braylon Miller, left, sprint toward the finish line in the 100 meters during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Zanesville catcher Mahki Murray snags a throw with his bare hand as Aaron Baker slides into home during a 14-13 win against host Morgan in a nonleague high school baseball game on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in McConnelsville, Ohio. The Blue Devils improved to 10-14 entering their May 15 home rematch with the Raiders at Jay Payton Field. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Morgan's Jaxon Pauley lunges for the finish line on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Jerry Neal Invitational at the Maysville High School Athletic Complex. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Zanesville's Cam Willett runs to a win in the 300 hurdles during the Jerry Neal Invitational on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Maysville High School in Newton Township, Ohio. Willett won both hurdles and was second in the 200 meters to lead all scorers. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Caiden Wiseman, of Millersport, fires a pitch during a 10-0 loss to Rosecrans in a Mid-State League-Cardinal Division baseball game on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gant Municipal Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio. The Bishops remain tied atop the division standings with the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Nick Bernath throws a pitch during Rosecrans' 10-0 win against visiting Millersport in a Mid-State League-Cardinal Division baseball game on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gant Municipal Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio. The Bishops remain tied atop the division standings with the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Ridgewood freshman Jayden Jaras fires a pitch plateward during a 8-6 win during Game 2 of a softball sweep against visiting Shendandoah on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. The Generls earned the No. 3 seed in the East District at the May 3 tournament drawing. (Sam Blackburn/Tribune/2026 archived photo)Haiden Omen tries to leg out an infield hit during Rosecrans' 10-0 win against visiting Millersport in a Mid-State League-Cardinal Division baseball game on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gant Municipal Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio. The Bishops remain tied atop the division standings with the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)John Glenn sophomore Kendall Snider fire a pitch during a game against Sheridan on April 6, 2026, in Reading Township, Ohio. Snider struck out 182 batters in 2025 and is the Muskingum Valley League' top returning pitcher. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder/2026 archived photo)Ridgewood senior Jackson Cabot takes a swing during a season-opening win against visiting Zanesville on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. Cabot, one of the team's veteran starters, is part of a Generals squad that has won 10 of its last 14 games as the postseason nears. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)West Muskingum's Gabbi Hammer fights off an inside pitch during a high school softball game against visiting West Muskingum on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. Hammer drove in three runs as West won, 26-7, to sweep the set against the Panthers. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Evee Matthews holds up the ball after tagging out a runner at second base as Brooklyn Toler makes the call in a high school softball game on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)John Glenn softball players celebrate from the bench after scoring a run in the seventh inning of a 4-2 comeback win against Sheridan on April 6, 2026, in Reading Township. The Muskies scored three times after being down to their last strike to pick up a key Muskingum Valley League road win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Calie Smith, of West Muskingum, throws out a runner at first base in a high school softball game on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. Smith drove in three runs with four hits in a 26-7 Tornado win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Logan Jones runs toward home during the third inning for Sheridan during a 12-2 win against Philo on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Philo assistant coach Kyle Lake takes in the action from the first base coaches box during a 12-2 loss to host Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Garrett Tom avoids being hit by a pitch during Philo's 12-2 loss against Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Garrett Tom, of Philo, throws to first base after making a diving stop in a 12-2 loss to host Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Jack Lincicome throws a runner out from his back after making a diving stop during Philo's 12-2 loss to host Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township, Ohio. Lincicome is one of multiple key returners for an Electrics squad aiming to compete for a top spot in the Muskingum Valley League-Small School Division. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Noah Wamer fires a pitch for Sheridan during a 13-5 win against visiting John Glenn in a high school baseball game on Monday, April 7, 2026, in Thornville, Ohio. Wamer pitched five two-hit innings with eight strikeouts to get the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Clayton Blackburn, of Morgan, fires a pitch during Morgan's 6-5 win against Crooksville on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. Blackburn, a senior, picked up the win in relief. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Morgan's Cam DeLong takes a throw from Kellie Caton as Myka Augenstein tries to score the tying run in the seventh inning during an 11-10 loss to Crooksville on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Madison VanNess tries to make a running catch in left field during Morgan's 11-10 loss to Crooksville on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Crooksville's Kyle Lane slides into second base during a 6-5 loss to visiting Morgan on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Paige Frame lays the tag on a sliding Maddie Schaad, of Morgan, during their game on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. Crooksville won, 11-10. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Crooksville coach Casey Vallee encourages one of his players during an 11-10 win against Morgan on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Zanesville's Makhi Murray fires a pitch during a 6-0 loss to host Ridgewood in a high school baseball game on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. Murray struck out five and allowed two earned runs in four innings. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)RIdgewood senior Jace McQueen races toward third base with a two-run triple during the sixth inning of a 6-0 win against visiting Zanesville in a high school baseball game on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Tribnue)John Glenn's Delaney bell fires a pitch against visiting Indian Valley during a high school softball game on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in New Concord, Ohio. John Glenn won, 7-1, to improve to 2-0. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recrder)John Glenn's Addison Babcock runs the bases against Indian Valley during a high school softball game on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in New Concord, Ohio. John Glenn won, 7-1, to improve to 2-0. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recrder)Zanesville coach Jason Smith surveys the action during his team's game against host Ridgewood on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Kayson Hoff throws a pitch during Zanesville's 6-0 loss to host Ridgewood on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Connor Croy throws a pitch during Ridgewood's 6-0 win against visiting Zanesville on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)West Muskingum's Jaxson Prang runs the 200 during a triangular with Morgan and host Maysville on April 28, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Morgan's James Thomas throws the discus during a triangular with West Muskingum and host Maysville on April 28, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Philo's Aubree DeLong runs the 300 hurdles during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Ethan Zell gets excited after winning the 800 during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Logan Goldsmith fires a pitch during Zanesville's 14-13 win against host Morgan on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in McConnelsville, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)Maddox Mohler tries to make a diving catch in center field during Zanesville's 14-13 win against host Morgan on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in McConnelsville, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)1 / 75
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Crooksville graduated senior Grayson Houk, pictured with his acceptance letter, recently became the first student in school history to earn admission to the Naval Academy. The school record holder in the 400 meters, who qualified for the Division IV state meet, plans to major in either nuclear or aerospace engineering. He was one of 1,200 applicants accepted out of more than 16,000. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville sophomore Chloe Wahl competes in the pole vault during the Division III state track and field meet on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Wahl finished tied for sixth to earn All-Ohio honors. (Kurt Snyder/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Morgan's Braylon Miller, middle, and Fairfield Union's Logan Osborn, right, race down the backstretch of the 400 meters during the Division III state track and field meet on Saturday, June 7, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Miller shattered his own personal and Muskingum Valley League record to place second in :44.48; Osborn was sixth in a personal-record :48.90. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
John Glenn's Ashlynn Kuklica and Napoleon's Gwenyth Huddle race toward the finish line in the 1600 meters during the Division III state track and field meet on Saturday, June 7, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Both runners ran 4:51.33, but Kuklica edged her in a photo finish to place second overall behind champion Sofia Szolosi, of Athens. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Sheridan senior Creed Hill, who throws the shot, will compete in the Division II state meet on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Hill, an All-Ohioan in football who will play at Saginaw State (Michigan), has added some five feet to his shot distance as a senior. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
West Muskingum's Jaxson Prang runs the final leg of the 4x100 relay to secure a seventh-place finish in Division IV at the OHSAA state track and field championships on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus.. (Troy Magers/Special to the USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Maysville's Bella Van Wey throws the shot in the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. Van Wey, who is signed with Bowling Green, placed second overall with a top throw of 42-4 1/2. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
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Maysville sophomore Emma Tamasovich participates in the high jump finals during the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. Tamasovich placed fifth to earn All-Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ridgewood's 4x400 team of Lorryn Werntz, top left, Molly Maple, top right, Kenzie Bice, bottom left, and Jayvn Gress stand with their silver medals for second place in the 4x400 meters on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ridgewood senior Kenzie Bice hugs teammate Lorryn Werntz, left, after finishing second in the 4x400 relay in the Division IV state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. The two also helped the 4x200 place fourth. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Philo's Aidan Mahon hits the sand durign the finals of the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Maysville senior Bella Van Wey flexes from the podium after placing runner-up in the shot during the Division III state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ridgewood's Lorryn Werntz hugs teammate Javyn Gress after finishing second in the 4x400 relay in the Division IV state track and field meet on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. in Columbus. The Generals finished in 4:01.0. (Sam Blackburn/USA Today Network-Ohio)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Morgan senior Braylon Miller runs in the 200 meters during the Jerry Neal Invitational on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Maysville High School Athletic Complex. Miller is seeded third in the 400 enter the Division III state track and field meet on June 5-6 at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
West Muskingum junior Carter Smith hopes to hit his peak in the high jump at the Division IV state track and field meet on June 3-4 at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Smith, who has cleared 6-foot, 4-inches this season, also plays football and basketball. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
John Glenn players stand with the runner-up trophy following a 1-0 loss to Licking Valley in a Division IV regional final at the Philo Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, Ohio. John Glenn ended a 26-6 season one win shy of the state tournament. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
John Glenn sophomore Kendall Snider throws a pitch during a 1-0 loss to Licking Valley in a Division IV regional final on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Philo Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, Ohio. Snider tossed a three-hitter and allowed no earned runs as the Muskies ended a 26-6 season. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Licking Valley players douse Emma Flowers, far left, with water after securing the final out of a 1-0 win against John Glenn in a Division IV regional final on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Philo Athletic Complex in Duncan Falls, Ohio. Valley, now 26-0, advanced to the state tournament as Emory Whisner tossed a three-hitter and escaped a two-on, none-out jam in the seventh to secure the victory. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Senior pitcher Gracie Hutton prepares to throw to first base during Tri-Valley's 11-4 loss to Plain City Jonathan Alder in a Division III regional semifinal on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Berne Union High School in Sugar Grove, Ohio. The Scotties, playing in their first regional since 2010, finished one win shy of their first Elite Eight. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville High School Subh Patel will participate in the Division II state tennis tournament on May 28-29 at the Linder Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. Patel, who picked up the game as a freshman at the urging of older brother Druv, is believed to be the first Blue Devil to reach the state in tennis since Ty Tucker in the mid-1980s. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Sheridan coach Mark Paxton consoles senior Haylie Clifton following a Division III East/Southeast District final against Dover on May 23 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Nova Carpenter, of Sheridan, tags out a runner at third base against Dover during a Division III East/Southeast District final on May 23 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Sheridan's Mrgan Ranck fires a pitch against Dover during a Division III East/Southeast District final at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Sheridan catcher Avery Hall looks into the dugout during a Division III East/Southeast District final against Dover on May 23 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Dover won, 6-0, to advance to a third straight regional. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ava Neal celebrates after the final out of Tri-Valley's 11-5 win against Unioto on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a Division III East/Southeast district final at Logan High School. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ayla Hittle is all smiles after receiving her championship medal following Tri-Valley's 11-5 win against Unioto on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a Division III East/Southeast district final at Logan High School. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Unioto's McKenna Williams, left, is consoled by Macie Cox following an 11-5 loss on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a Division III East/Southeast district final at Logan High School. The Shermans finished 18-12. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ava Neal, left, and Ayla Hittle get excited after Gabby Prati's second home run of the game in a Division III East/Southeast district final on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Logan High School in Logan, Ohio. Tri-Valley won, 11-5, to secure its first regional bid in 16 years. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
in a Division III East/Southeast district final on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Logan High School in Logan, Ohio. Tri-Valley won its first regional in 16 years. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Sheridan pitcher Megan Ranck fires a pitch during the second inning of a 6-0 loss to Dover in a Division III East/Southeast District final on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Ranck, who battled sickness the day of the game, allowed one earned run in a complete game as Sheridan finished a 20-8 season. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Dalena Rollison, of Crooksville, slides into second base with a double during a 4-0 loss to Garaway in a Division VI East District final on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Cambridge City Park in Cambridge, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Crooksville's Dalena Rollison celebrates after hitting a double during a 4-0 loss to Garaway in a Division VI East District final on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Cambridge City Park in Cambridge, Ohio. Rollison had two of the Ceramics' six hits. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Crooksville's Dalena Rollison consoles senior Mylin Driggs following a 4-0 win against Garaway in a Division VI East District final on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Cambridge City Park in Cambridge, Ohio. Driggs is one of three senior starters graduating from back-to-back district finalists. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
West Muskingum's Carter Smith takes a handoff during the 4x400 relay during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Sheridan senior Creed Hill sets a personal record in the shot with a throw of 55-3 1/4 during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. It was the second-longest throw in Sheridan history, trailing only former state champion Eli Kiener in 1999. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville's Camron Willett competes in the 110 hurdles during the LCL-Buckeye Championships held at Granville High School on Friday, May 15, 2026. (Michael Lehmkuhle/Special the USA Today Network)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
River View's Parker Andrews and Morgan's Braylon Miller, left, sprint toward the finish line in the 100 meters during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville catcher Mahki Murray snags a throw with his bare hand as Aaron Baker slides into home during a 14-13 win against host Morgan in a nonleague high school baseball game on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in McConnelsville, Ohio. The Blue Devils improved to 10-14 entering their May 15 home rematch with the Raiders at Jay Payton Field. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Morgan's Jaxon Pauley lunges for the finish line on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Jerry Neal Invitational at the Maysville High School Athletic Complex. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville's Cam Willett runs to a win in the 300 hurdles during the Jerry Neal Invitational on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Maysville High School in Newton Township, Ohio. Willett won both hurdles and was second in the 200 meters to lead all scorers. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Caiden Wiseman, of Millersport, fires a pitch during a 10-0 loss to Rosecrans in a Mid-State League-Cardinal Division baseball game on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gant Municipal Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio. The Bishops remain tied atop the division standings with the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Nick Bernath throws a pitch during Rosecrans' 10-0 win against visiting Millersport in a Mid-State League-Cardinal Division baseball game on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gant Municipal Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio. The Bishops remain tied atop the division standings with the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ridgewood freshman Jayden Jaras fires a pitch plateward during a 8-6 win during Game 2 of a softball sweep against visiting Shendandoah on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. The Generls earned the No. 3 seed in the East District at the May 3 tournament drawing. (Sam Blackburn/Tribune/2026 archived photo)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Haiden Omen tries to leg out an infield hit during Rosecrans' 10-0 win against visiting Millersport in a Mid-State League-Cardinal Division baseball game on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gant Municipal Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio. The Bishops remain tied atop the division standings with the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Ranck, Snider head All-Ohio, All-District picks by coaches
John Glenn sophomore Kendall Snider fire a pitch during a game against Sheridan on April 6, 2026, in Reading Township, Ohio. Snider struck out 182 batters in 2025 and is the Muskingum Valley League' top returning pitcher. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder/2026 archived photo)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ridgewood senior Jackson Cabot takes a swing during a season-opening win against visiting Zanesville on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. Cabot, one of the team's veteran starters, is part of a Generals squad that has won 10 of its last 14 games as the postseason nears. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
West Muskingum's Gabbi Hammer fights off an inside pitch during a high school softball game against visiting West Muskingum on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. Hammer drove in three runs as West won, 26-7, to sweep the set against the Panthers. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Evee Matthews holds up the ball after tagging out a runner at second base as Brooklyn Toler makes the call in a high school softball game on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
John Glenn softball players celebrate from the bench after scoring a run in the seventh inning of a 4-2 comeback win against Sheridan on April 6, 2026, in Reading Township. The Muskies scored three times after being down to their last strike to pick up a key Muskingum Valley League road win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Calie Smith, of West Muskingum, throws out a runner at first base in a high school softball game on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. Smith drove in three runs with four hits in a 26-7 Tornado win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Logan Jones runs toward home during the third inning for Sheridan during a 12-2 win against Philo on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Philo assistant coach Kyle Lake takes in the action from the first base coaches box during a 12-2 loss to host Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Garrett Tom avoids being hit by a pitch during Philo's 12-2 loss against Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Garrett Tom, of Philo, throws to first base after making a diving stop in a 12-2 loss to host Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township,. Ohio. Sheridan remained unbeaten in Muskingum Valley League play. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Jack Lincicome throws a runner out from his back after making a diving stop during Philo's 12-2 loss to host Sheridan on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Reading Township, Ohio. Lincicome is one of multiple key returners for an Electrics squad aiming to compete for a top spot in the Muskingum Valley League-Small School Division. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Noah Wamer fires a pitch for Sheridan during a 13-5 win against visiting John Glenn in a high school baseball game on Monday, April 7, 2026, in Thornville, Ohio. Wamer pitched five two-hit innings with eight strikeouts to get the win. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Clayton Blackburn, of Morgan, fires a pitch during Morgan's 6-5 win against Crooksville on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. Blackburn, a senior, picked up the win in relief. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Morgan's Cam DeLong takes a throw from Kellie Caton as Myka Augenstein tries to score the tying run in the seventh inning during an 11-10 loss to Crooksville on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Madison VanNess tries to make a running catch in left field during Morgan's 11-10 loss to Crooksville on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Crooksville's Kyle Lane slides into second base during a 6-5 loss to visiting Morgan on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Paige Frame lays the tag on a sliding Maddie Schaad, of Morgan, during their game on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. Crooksville won, 11-10. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Crooksville coach Casey Vallee encourages one of his players during an 11-10 win against Morgan on April 2, 2026, in McLuney, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville's Makhi Murray fires a pitch during a 6-0 loss to host Ridgewood in a high school baseball game on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. Murray struck out five and allowed two earned runs in four innings. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sheridan, Ridgewood stars head All-Ohio, All-District baseball lists
RIdgewood senior Jace McQueen races toward third base with a two-run triple during the sixth inning of a 6-0 win against visiting Zanesville in a high school baseball game on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Tribnue)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
John Glenn's Delaney bell fires a pitch against visiting Indian Valley during a high school softball game on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in New Concord, Ohio. John Glenn won, 7-1, to improve to 2-0. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recrder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
John Glenn's Addison Babcock runs the bases against Indian Valley during a high school softball game on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in New Concord, Ohio. John Glenn won, 7-1, to improve to 2-0. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recrder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Zanesville coach Jason Smith surveys the action during his team's game against host Ridgewood on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Kayson Hoff throws a pitch during Zanesville's 6-0 loss to host Ridgewood on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Connor Croy throws a pitch during Ridgewood's 6-0 win against visiting Zanesville on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in West Lafayette, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
West Muskingum's Jaxson Prang runs the 200 during a triangular with Morgan and host Maysville on April 28, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Morgan's James Thomas throws the discus during a triangular with West Muskingum and host Maysville on April 28, 2026, in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Philo's Aubree DeLong runs the 300 hurdles during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Ethan Zell gets excited after winning the 800 during the Muskingum Valley League track and field meet on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Maysville Athletic Complex in Newton Township, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Logan Goldsmith fires a pitch during Zanesville's 14-13 win against host Morgan on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in McConnelsville, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
Sam's choice: Our top high school sports photos from spring
Maddox Mohler tries to make a diving catch in center field during Zanesville's 14-13 win against host Morgan on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in McConnelsville, Ohio. (Sam Blackburn/Times Recorder)
The new varsity softball head coach at Zanesville High School already has several goals for his new team.
"I've spent years coaching this game. Stepping into my first high school head coaching role isn't just a new title, it's an opportunity to lead, mentor, and help these young ladies grow into confident, disciplined, and resilient people," Michael Johnson said in a community announcement.
"I'm excited to build a program that competes with passion, represents our school with pride, and gives every player the chance to become the best version of themselves," he added.
While new to the high school, running a softball program is anything but new to Johnson.
"I've coached travel softball for athletes of all ages from 2012 to 2022 before serving as the Zanesville Middle School softball coach from 2023-2026. During my years in travel softball, I've helped develop numerous athletes who went on to play collegiate softball, reflecting my commitment to player development both on and off the field."
Zanesville City Schools Athletic Director Devin Barnhouse said selecting Johnson was an easy decision.
"I'm proud to bring in someone who has already had a connection with the community and relationships with our athletes," Barnhouse said in the announcement.
One of Johnson's goals is to change the culture, by building a program centered on accountability, effort and pride. "We're creating consistent standards and routines that will strengthen the program for years to come," he said.
Another is to focus on increasing participation and excitement around the softball program in the school and community.
Johnson is a 1994 graduate of Maysville High School. His daughter, Mikenna Johnson, will join him as an assistant coach as will Katlynn Foster.
"We believe the future is bright for student-athletes at Zanesville," he concluded.