Ohio
Southwest Ohio all-district football teams are out. See where your favorite player lands
The Southwest District has selected its all-district teams for the 2025 football season.
The Ohio Prep Sports Media Association panel, which included multiple writers from The Enquirer and other Cincinnati and Greater Dayton media, selected the list.
Here are some key Cincinnati-relevant takeaways.
St. Bernard-Elmwood Place head coach Kyle Hogan is the Division VI coach of the year after leading the Titans to a 9-2 record and the league championship of the Miami Valley Conference-White Division.
North College Hill head coach Greg Conwell is the Division V coach of the year after leading the Trojans from a 3-6 record last year to 8-3 this season. Williamsburg senior Luke Czarnecki is the Division V defensive player of the year after leading a unit that allowed 72 points during the regular season, and only six total in four league games. He was the leading tackler with 91 (33 solo), including 9.5 for loss and an interception.
Taft swept the honors in Division IV. Quarterback Monsanna Torbert won the offensive player of the year, Adam Kirtley the defensive player of the year, Tyler Williams the coach of the year as they take an 11-0 record to Indian Hill Nov. 14.
In Division III, Talawanda head coach Andy Stuckert is the coach of the year after leaving the Brave to a 10-2 record and the second round of the playoffs. Senior running back Lance Cantrell is the offensive player of the year after rushing for 2,523 yards and 30 touchdowns.
In Division II, Anderson head coach Evan Dreyer is the coach of the year as he leads the 11-0 Raptors against La Salle Nov. 14. Anderson linebacker Brady Kuhn is the defensive player of the year, leading a unit that allows only 12 points per game. He is the leading tackler on the team with 92 stops, 45 solo, with seven sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss.
In Division I, Elder head coach Doug Ramsey is the coach of the year, and Panthers senior Derek Uran the defensive player of the year as they lead the 11-0 Panthers into a home game with Princeton Nov. 14. Lakota East senior running back Ryder Hooks is the offensive player of the year after rushing for 2,032 yards and 19 touchdowns, plus adding three receiving touchdowns and two return scores.
Hooks and reigning Ohio Mr. Football Matt Ponatoski are the Southwest District nominees for this year’s Mr. Football ballot. The winner will be announced during the state finals.
The All-Ohio teams will be released in December.
2025 OPSMA Division VII All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: Turner Lachey, Sidney Lehman Catholic; Defensive player of the year: Isaiah Christian, Cedarville; Coach of the year: Dwane Rowley, Sidney Lehman Catholic
First-team offense
Backfield: Levi Guttman, Cincinnati Country Day, 6-2, 205, jr., QB; Ray Hoying, Fort Loramie, 6-4, 225, sr., RB; Turner Lachey, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 5-10, 170, sr., QB; Will Mossing, Cedarville, 6-1, 160, sr., QB; Jacob Schmitmeyer, Ansonia, 5-10, 175. jr., RB; Reece Wendel, Fort Recovery, 5-11, 180, sr., RB.
Receivers: Thomas Huckleby, Cincinnati Country Day, 5-7, 175, so.; Berkeley Little, Springfield Catholic Central, 5-10, 155, sr.; C.J. Olding, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 6-0, 175, sr.; Evan O’Leary, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 5-10, 185, sr.
Linemen: Lucas Donahue, Cincinnati Country Day, 6-2, 280, sr.; Oden Hoening, Ansonia, 5-11, 200, jr.; Jace Olding, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 6-2, 240, sr.; Hayden Stephens, New Miami, 6-2, 255, sr.; Drew Wilson, De Graff Riverside, 6-0, 230, jr.
Kicker: Nate Van Loo, Cedarville, 6-1, 170, sr.
First Team Defense
Linemen: Lucas Barlow, West Alexandria Twin Valley South, 6-4, 190, jr.; Sir Michael Miller, CCPA, 6-3, 225, jr.; Luke Wright, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 6-0, 180, jr.; Isaiah Johnson, New Miami, 6-1, 235, jr.; Matt Nye, Springfield Catholic Central, 6-0, 185, sr.Linebackers: Isaiah Christian, Cedarville, 5-9, 175, sr.; Frank Filbrun, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 5-7, 175, sr.; Noah Henry, New Miami, 5-7, jr.; Grady Jenkins, De Graff Riverside, 5-10, 170, sr.; Breaker Jutte, Fort Recovery, 6-4, 210, jr.; Will Robinson, Cincinnati Country Day, 6-1, 200, sr.Secondary: Ramik Bell, CCPA, 6-2, 190, jr.; Leon Hall, CCD, 6-0, 180, jr.; Mario Meatchem, CCPA, 5-11, 170, jr.; Brandon Proffitt, CCD, 5-8, 175, sr.; Bryant Richardson, CCPA, 5-11, 170, sr.Punter: Carson Krieg, South Charleston Southeastern Local, 6-6, 190, sr.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Peyton Fannin, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 5-8, 160, jr., RB; Marlan Robertson, CCPA, 5-9, 165, jr., RB; Lander Shives, Ansonia, 5-9, 195, jr., RB.
Receivers: Tanner Eilerman, Fort Loramie, 6-3, 175, fr.; Derek Orr, Cedarville, 6-3, 175, sr.; Kyle Wehrkamp, Union City Mississinawa Valley; 6-0, 170, sr.Linemen: Ty Houser, Union City Mississinawa Valley, 6-1, 240, jr.; Ramad Jacobs, CCPA, 6-1, 250, jr.; Bryton McNamee, New Miami, 5-11, 235, jr.; Bennett Woodyard, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 6-3, 195, sr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Kaleb Bergman, Fort Loramie, 6-3, 205, sr.; Ty Hicks, Lockland, 6-3, 220, sr.; Jake Norris, Union City Mississinawa Valley, 6-0, 260, sr.
Linebackers: Brody Adams, Springfield Catholic Central, 6-4, 240, sr.; Colton Hiestand. Union City Mississinawa Valley, 6-190, so.; Charles Howard, CCPA, 6-0, 220, jr.; Nate Terrell, Cedarville. 6-1 225, jr.
Secondary: Zac Dues, Fort Loramie, 5-10, 155, sr.; Gabe Steineman, De Graff Riverside, 6-1, 160, jr.; Cainan Robinson, Ansonia, 6-0, 160, sr.
Honorable Mention: Braxton Harrington, South Charleston Southeastern Local; Clayton Pauley, New Miami; Tony Robinson, De Graff Riverside; Dante Farley Jr., Lockland; Corbin Flory, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Bryce Krickenbarger, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Trace Coffey, South Charleston Southeastern Local; Aiden Ritchie, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Lee Tilley, Springfield Catholic Central; Mitchell Harrall, South Charleston Southeastern Local; Mason Givens, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Grayson Woodworth, Lewisburg Tri-County North.
2025 OPSMA Division VI All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: Trey Sagester, New Madison Tri-Village; Defensive player of the year: Noah Finkbine, Tri-Village, Sr, LB; Coach of the year: Kyle Hogan, St. Bernard-Elmwood-Place
First-team offense
Backfield: Ayden Basham, Blanchester, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Lucas Cannady, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 6-1, 210, jr., QB; Trey Sagester, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-3, 170, sr., QB; Diezel Taylor, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-2, 201, sr., QB; Logan Ziegenbusch, Anna, 5-11, 160, so., QB; Brody Schmidt, Dayton Christian, 5-10, 165, jr., QB.
Receivers: Morgan Brown, Deer Park, 5-7,165, so.; Jacoby Newman, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-1,181, sr.; Griff Richards, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-0, 175, jr.; Zebadiah Pleiman, Anna, 5-10, 160, sr.; Caden Shepherd, Dayton Christian, 6-3, 185, sr.Linemen: Dom Black, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-4, 280, jr.; Lucas Lester, Covington, 5-10, 190, jr.; Blake Longstreth, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 6-1, 246, jr.; Isaiah Stallworth, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-11, 350, sr.; Luke Vernon, New Paris National Trail, 6-2, 190, sr.; Corey Waters, Deer Park, 6-1, 260, sr.
Athlete: Cooper Reynolds, Blanchester, 6-0, 140, jr.
First-team defense
Linemen: James Hall, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 6-4, 200, sr.; Trenton Havenar, Covington, 6-0, 225, jr.; Hunter Johnsman, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-3, 210 sr.; Sefa Sackey, Deer Park, 6-7, 200, sr.; Julian Stearns, Anna, 6-6, 190, jr.; Nolan Wilt, Anna, 6-1, 230, sr.Linebackers: Hans Erickson, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 5-10, 178, jr.; Noah Finkbine, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-1, 190, sr.; Landon Hewitt, Anna, 6-0, sr.; Cody Houseman, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-0, 184, sr.; Jackson Jones, South Vienna Northeastern, 5-10, 166, sr.; Cory Kidd, Blanchester, 5-10, 205, so.
Secondary: Jeremiah DesJardins, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 5-9, 155, jr.; Filip McMaken, Covington, 5-10, 155, jr., Colt Camacho, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-1, 180, so.; Korde Williams, Summit Country Day, 5-11, 155, fr.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Landin Cassell, Covington, 6-5, 200, jr., QB; Staley Colston, New Madison Tri-Village, 5-10, 175, so., RB; Jacob Culter, Dayton Christian, 5-7, 195, jr. RB; Dameko Taylor, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-11, 175, jr., RB.
Receivers: Day’Lynn Garrett, Covington, 6-0, 165, sr.; Jonah Brinkley, New Paris National Trail, 6-2, 190, jr.; Amare Hicks, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 160, sr.; Asa Crocket, Dayton Christian, 6-4, 225, sr.
Linemen: Levi Farmer, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-2, 250, sr.; Brock Gillam, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-1, 224, sr.; Tony Stier, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 275, sr.; Jeffrey Knox, Dayton Christian, 6-0, 235, jr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Elijah Brooks, Covington, 6-1, 210, jr.; Deshawn Hicks, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 6-4, 255, sr.; Zach Holland, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 6-2, 200, jr.
Linebackers: Landen Moore, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-2, 210, sr.; Grady Ott, New Paris National Trail, 6-2, 190, so.; Sam Reder, Summit Country Day, 6-0, 215, sr.; Nathan Schulte, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 160, sr.; D.J. Steele, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 165, so.
Secondary: Talon Bousman, New Paris National Trail, 5-10, 160, so.; Aiden Martin, New Paris National Trail, 5-9, 140, sr.; Kaleb Moone, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-2, 184, sr.; Tink Sellers, Deer Park, 6-0, 170, jr.
Honorable Mention: Brayden Behymer, Blanchester; Cole Swafford, New Lebanon Dixie; Jody Wintrow, New Paris National Trail; Roy Riddle, Sabina East Clinton; Cameron Hartman, Dayton Christian; Braylin Biffle, Dayton Christian; Trenton Begley, Troy Christian; A.J. Reyes, Covington; Isaac Daiga, Dayton Christian; Grady Boggs, Sabina East Clinton; Angel Torres, Blanchester; Colt Jamison, Sabina East Clinton; Nate Williams, Dayton Christian; Jacob Grossnickle, Troy Christian; Eli Queen, Dayton Christian.
2025 OPSMA Division V All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: Brody Morton, Camden Preble Shawnee; Defensive player of the year: Luke Czarnecki, Williamsburg; Coach of the year: Greg Conwell, North College Hill
First-team offense
Backfield: Brady Golliday, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-2, 215, jr., QB; K.J. Gustin, Casstown Miami East, 6-1, 195, jr., QB; Danny Hoke, St. Paris Graham, 6-0, 210, jr., RB; Kolby Morgerson, Carlisle, 6-3, 190, jr., QB; Brody Morton, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-3, 190, sr., QB; Gray Robinson, Williamsburg, 6-3, 210, jr., RB.
Receivers: Jai’Veon Allen, North College Hill, 6-1, 190, sr.; Caleb Blankenship, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-2, 180, jr.; Jack Hamaker, Casstown Miami East, 5-11, 175, jr.; Brodey Reisinger, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-2, 192, jr.; Tyce Rutledge, Waynesville, 6-1, 185, so.; Zyhr Youngblood, Finneytown, 5 -10, 185, sr.
Linemen: Drew Clark, St. Paris Graham, 6-2, 280, jr.; Trey Holden, Williamsburg, 5-11, 250, sr.; Hunter Leath, Greeneview, 6-0, 265, sr.; Nate Marshal, Versailles, 6-4, 240, jr.,; Marcus Rayburn, Arcanum, 6-0, 275, sr.; Cooper Shrout, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-3, 260, sr.
Athlete: Troy Harris, Williamsburg, 5-11, 165, sr.
Kicker: Avery Pequignot, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-1, 170, sr.
First-team defense
Linemen: Mekelle Bass, North College Hill, 6-3, 250, sr.; Austyn Benton, Carlisle, 6-5, 315, sr.; Navin Heard, Purcell Marian, 6-2, 200, jr.; Cameron Moss, Dayton Northridge, 6-3, 255, sr.; Aaron Rapp, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-0, 240, so.; Jack Simpson, Mariemont, 6-2, 215, sr.
Linebackers: Aidan Audretch, Madeira, 6-1, 220, sr.; Luke Czarnecki, Williamsburg, 6-2, 200, sr.; Brandon Stone, Casstown Miami East, 5-11, 195, sr.; Sam Strapp, West Liberty West Liberty-Salem, 6-1, 195, sr.; Jack Traylor, St. Paris Graham, 5-10, 180, sr.
Secondary: Charlie Lane, West Milton Milton-Union, 6-1, 185, sr.; Sulaiman Muhammed Dayton Northridge 6-0, 165, sr.; Blake Opichka, Madeira, 5-9, 155, sr.; Ashton Pelfrey, Carlisle, 5-9, 160, sr.; Luke Robinson, Mariemont, 5-10, 180, sr.; Terron Vaughn, Purcell Marian, 5-11, 165, sr.
Punter: Colton Schroeder, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-2, 180, sr.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Alex Collins, Carlisle, 6-1, 185, so., RB; Z’yohn Gillespie, Purcell Marian, 5-9, 165, jr., RB; Teagan Henry, Enon Greenon, 5-11, 165, jr., QB; M.J. Macy, Arcanum, 5-9, 185, jr., RB; Tre’von Rowe, Dayton Northridge, 5-10, 175, sr. RB; Carson Tenhunfeld, Williamsburg, 6-4, 175, sr. QB.
Receivers: Drew Conger, Carlisle, 6-0, 175, sr.; Brody Jenkins, St. Paris Graham, 6-0, 180, jr.; Lincoln Littlejohn, Casstown Miami East, 5-10, 155, jr.; Luke Richards, Carlisle, 6-1, 220, sr.; Mason Ropp, Enon Greenon, 5-10, 152, fr.; Kade Schwartz, Versailles, 6-2, 180, jr.
Linemen: Jase Hodges, Jamestown Greeneview, 5-10, 205, sr.; Levi Hollingsworth, St. Paris Graham, 5-9, 220, jr.; Alex Kertesz, Enon Greenon, 6-3, 192, sr.; Jackson McIntosh, Carlisle, 6-0, 220, sr.; Chase Muterspaw, Jamestown Greeneview, 6-2, 225, so.; Kevonte Whitiker, North College Hill, 5-10, 150, jr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Isaiah Brady, Carlisle, 6-2, 280, sr.; Franklin Kinney, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-2, 222, sr.; Caleb Neth, Williamsburg, 5-11, 225, sr.; Deriyon New, North College Hill, 6-3, 275, sr.; Bobby Rice, Middletown Madison, 6-0, 260, fr.; Jesse Williamson, Milton-Union, 6-0, 260, sr.
Linebackers: Preston Buchanan, Middletown Madison, 5-10, 195, sr.; Lincoln Griesmer, Mariemont, 6-5, 215, sr.; Evan Maxson, Casstown Miami East, 5-11, 170, jr.; Aiden Meadors, Norwood, 5-11, 180, jr.; Hezekiah Powell, Purcell Marian, 5-10, 190, jr.; Kolton Quigney, Arcanum, 5-10, 190, sr.
Secondary: Bishop Cartwright, Arcanum, 6-2, 160, jr.; Khingston Ferguson, Purcell Marian, 6-2, 200, sr.; Bacon Geer, Clermont Northeastern, 5-11, 150, sr.; Gavin Henry, Lewiston Indian Lake, 5-11, 150, sr.; Arden McGuire, St. Paris Graham, 6-1, 180, jr.; Jahlil Youngblood, Finneytown, 5 -7, 170, sr.
Honorable Mention: Zach Maier, Mariemont; Gregory Marlow, Waynesville; Brady Schmidt, Clermont Northeastern; Brandon Wise, Finneytown; Kody Clark, Middletown Madison; Jakob Hoke, St. Paris Graham; Landyn Knapke, Versailles; Kai Ricks, Enon Greenon; Noah Shirk, Lewiston Indian Lake; Jordan Stafford, Jamestown Greeneview; Corbin Wallace, West Liberty West Liberty-Salem; Ethan Rychnovsky, Enon Greenon; Ben Carpenter, West Milton Milton-Union; Isaiah Frazee, Arcanum; Brayden Freeman, Arcanum; Caleb Hammond, Mariemont; Andrew Huber, Purcell Marian; Kayden Lucas, Enon Greenon; Jackson Luman, Clermont Northeastern; Connor Rogers, Arcanum; Jack Borchers, Versailles; Owen Collett, Casstown Miami East; Eddye Conners, Dayton Northridge; Travis Dirksen, Versailles; Colton Hull, Norwood; Emmitt Ondera, Casstown Miami East; Tyler Purcell, Clermont Northeastern; Jacob Schuler, Milton-Union; Anthony Branch, North College Hill; Cason Berner, West Milton Milton-Union; Rhett Hickman, Jamestown Greeneview; Seth Lowry, West Milton Milton-Union; Karter Newman, Jamestown Greeneview; Jacob Steel, Finneytown; Tyler Watkins, Clermont Northeastern; Darell Hearn, Norwood; Owen Ondera, Casstown Miami East.
2025 OPSMA Division IV All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: Monsanna Torbert, Taft; Defensive player of the year: Adam Kirtley, Taft; Coach of the year: Tyler Williams, Taft
First-team offense
Backfield: Devlan Daniel, Indian Hill, 6-1, 205, jr., QB; Grady Lantz, Urbana, 6-2, 185, jr., QB; Zach Lutz, Oakwood, 6-0, 185, sr., QB; Griffin Ridner Richard, CHCA, 6-5, 185, sr., QB; Easton Schrimpf, Taylor, 5-8, 170, sr., RB; Monsanna Torbert, Taft, 6-0, 170, jr., QB.
Receivers: Lorenzo McMullen Jr., Taft, 6-2, 175, sr.; Brylan Miltenberger, Wyoming, 6-1, 180, jr.; Landen Schultian, Bethel Bethel-Tate, 5-8, 140, sr.; Colton Teepe, Urbana, 6-4, 185, sr.; Anthony Valenti, Germantown Valley View, 5-11, 175, sr.; Michael Woeste, Oakwood, 6-0, 180, jr.
Linemen: Ben Abbott, Fenwick, 6-2, 225, sr.; Dakin Johnson, Clinton-Massie, 6-3, 260, sr.; Jason Lunsford, Reading, 6-1, 265, sr.; Sam Norby, Brookville, 5-11, 200, sr.; Drew Roeder, Indian Hill, 6-2, 265, sr.; Landyn West, Germantown Valley View, 5-9, 220, sr.
Athletes: Nijia Hill, Taft, 6-0, 190, sr.; Tristen Trampler, Clinton-Massie, 6-1, 185, sr.
Kicker: Jon Hewitt, Eaton, 6-3, 182, sr.
First-team defense
Linemen: Bryce Brewster, Taft, 6-3, 255, sr.; Jaxson Frye, Indian Hill, 6-4, 215, sr.; Ty Martin, Clinton-Massie, 6-2, 210, jr.; Brayden Reich, Brookville, 5-10, 240, sr.; Brennan Shaffer, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 6-4, 220, jr.; Presley Stewart, Eaton, 6-4, 214, sr.
Linebackers: Ceasar Berryman, Germantown Valley View, 6-0, 225, sr.; Tyler Johnson-Huff, Wyoming, 6-0, 195, jr.; Patrick Keefer, Fenwick, 6-2, 200, sr.; Adam Kirtley, Taft, 6-2, 215, sr.; Max Labin, CHCA, 5-11, 191, sr.; Evan Riggs, Indian Hill, 6-1, 205, sr.
Secondary: Camden Dittman, New Richmond, 5-10, 185, sr.; Dylan Hartman, Indian Hill, 5-10, 170, jr.; Qevon “NuNu” Wathel, Gamble Montessori, 6-2, 170, sr; Brady Thobe, Oakwood, 5-11, 170, jr.; Key’Sean Torbert, Taft, 5-10, 170, so.; Kavontae Whipple, Taft, 6-0, 175, sr.
Punter: Teddy Peterson, Wyoming, 6-1, 145, so.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Julian Daniels, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 6-3, 190, sr. QB; David Dupee, Wyoming, 6-0, 180, jr., QB; Kaden Zantene, Clinton-Massie, 5-10, 175, sr., QB; Brodie Hopkins, Germantown Valley View, 5-8, 175, jr., RB; D.J. Moore, Brookville, 6-1, 170, sr., RB; Braylon Patchell, New Richmond, 5-9, 290, sr., RB
Receivers: Eddie Holloway, Taft, 5-11, 170, jr.; Christian Hutchinson, Shroder, 6-0, 175, sr.; Andrew Smith, Clinton-Massie, 6-1, 180, sr.; George Vollmer, Indian Hill, 6-0, 175, sr.; Alex Wells, CHCA, 6-0, 184, sr.
Linemen: Tommy Bedel, Taylor, 5-11, 260, so.; Joe Coleman, Roger Bacon, 6-3, 230, sr.; Kevin Endres, Urbana, 6-7, 255, sr.; Antony Ghabrial, CHCA, 6-1, 265, sr.; Eli Welch, Bethel-Tate, 6-2, 285, sr.; A.J. Williams, Wyoming, 6-0, 280, jr.
Athlete: Jackson Kauffman, Bishop Fenwick, 5-10, 180, sr.
Kicker: Mitchell Rottinghaus, CHCA, 5-10, 171, sr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Chase Crittenden, Wyoming, 6-3, 220, sr.; Amari Jones, Dayton Meadowdale, 5-9, 185, jr.; Chayse Mack, Taft, 6-1, 280, sr.; Von Price, Brookville, 6-7, 230, sr.; Case Teepe, Urbana, 6-3, 235, so.; Jaden Tiller, Roger Bacon, 5-10, 240, sr.
Linebackers: Owen Clary, CHCA, 6-1, 218, jr.; Dearonn Daniel, Dayton Meadowdale, 6-2, 205, so.; Massila “Red” Diawara, Gamble Montessori, 5-10, 185, jr.; Max Hoffmann, Roger Bacon, 5-10, 175, sr.; Josiah “JoJo” Pouncy, Taft, 6-3, 210, jr.; Kelby Shaffer, Fenwick, 5-9, 185, sr.
Secondary: D.J. Berning, Fenwick, 5-11, 160, jr.; Aden Lamb, Brookville, 5-11, 190, sr.; Bryndyn Parsons, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 5-11, 175, jr.; Gavin Phillips, Germantown Valley View, 5-11, 160, sr.; Liam Vargo, Roger Bacon, 5-11, 175, jr.; Xavier White, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 5-10, 160, sr.
Punter: Brandon Heater, Benjamin Logan, 6-0, 175, jr.
Honorable Mention: Jordan Brown, Dayton Meadowdale; Charlie Kantz, Taylor; Brian McGrady, Shroder; Jax Pryor, Bethel-Tate; Bubba Smart, Roger Bacon; Ried Smith, Springfield Northwestern; Landon Cornwell, Tipp City Bethel; Hudson Kreke, Fenwick; Jake Lenser, Brookville; Jamere Mitchell, Roger Bacon; Brody Runkle, Springfield, Kenton Ridge; Courtney Russell, Dayton Meadowdale; Marc Smith, Reading; Dylan Wolf, New Richmond; Camden Aylward, Bethel-Tate; Colt Cotner, Urbana; Braden Devine, Oakwood; Sean Heberling, Fenwick; Urban Kummerer, Oakwood; Mason McDermott, Springfield Northwestern; Calil Moody, Shroder, Rennen Smith, Springfield Northwestern; Cordae Cross, Shroder; JR Evans, Clinton-Massie; Henry Hayes, Indian Hill; Ryan Massie-Cable, Taylor, Finn McCarty, Oakwood; Hunter Pauley, Roger Bacon; Khendahll Saka, Dayton Meadowdale; Mali Stevenson, Gamble Montessori; Hunter Wright, New Richmond; Josh Hernandez, Shroder; Jace Horner, Clinton-Massie; Landen Collins, Bethel-Tate; Ivan Turek, Oakwood; Jaden Allen, Shroder; Austin Hill, Urbana; Dwight Mitchell, Dayton Thurgood Marshall; Justus Rose, Urbana; Daniel Swift, Fenwick; Masyn Vannoy, Springfield Kenton Ridge; Cortez Reed, Gamble Montessori.
2025 OPSMA Division III All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: Lance Cantrell, Talawanda; Defensive player of the year: Collin Isaac, Tipp City Tippecanoe; Coach of the year: Andy Stuckert, Talawanda
First-team offense
Backfield: Lance Cantrell, Talawanda, 5-10, 205, sr., RB; Drew Cripps, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-0, 175, jr., RB; Gage Croley, Goshen, 5-8, 175, jr., RB; Lem Grayson, Badin, 5-8, 195, sr., RB; Xavier Melton, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 176, sr., RB; Larkin Thomas, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 180, jr., QB.
Receivers: John Barr, Greenville, 6-4, 200, sr.; Noah Barrios, Bellbrook, 6-0, 175, sr.; James Brink, Badin, 6-1, 170, sr.; Marcus Hughbanks, Batavia, 6-3, 205, sr.; Will Strong, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-1, 186, sr.
Linemen: Cal Connors, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-0, 237, jr.; Hollis Hofman, Talawanda, 6-1, 295, jr.; Dane Koelker, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-4, 228, sr.; Jeffrey Martin, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-3, 267, sr.; Joe Mulvey, McNicholas, 6-2, 275, sr.; Landon Noble, Greenville, 6-4, 275, sr.; Pete Pendergest, Badin, 6-6, 265, sr.
Athletes: Phayden Mawyer, Wilmington, 5-10, 165, jr.; Rod Owens, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-1, 197, sr.
Kicker: Gabe Miyahara, Badin, 5-10, 155, jr.
First-team defense
Linemen: Josh Charron, McNicholas, 5-10, 180, jr.; Max Hamilton, McNicholas, 6-0, 198, jr.; Austin Hurst, Franklin, 6-1, 230, sr.; Ryan Kolb, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-0, 257, jr.; Nolan Ogburn, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-3, 230, sr.
Linebackers: Alex Galante, Ross, 6-1, 195, jr.; Collin Isaac, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-0, 198, sr.; Braydon Isaacs, Franklin, 6-2, 225, sr.; Windon Lowe, Talawanda, 5-11, 185, so.; Alex Pate, Badin, 6-1, 205, sr.; Sam Whitcomb, McNicholas, 5-10, 186, jr.
Secondary: Devin Berner, New Carlisle Tecumseh, 5-10, 165, so.; Max Deckard, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 163, sr.; Brandt Kugler, Ross, 6-0, 185, sr.; Kemper McAfee, Talawanda, 6-1, 180, jr.; Eli Stewart, Wilmington, 5-9. 145, sr., Cam Telinda, Goshen, 6-0, 170, jr.
Punter: Ben Sakach, Badin, 6-0, 210, sr.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Colt Emerson, Badin, 6-0, 185, sr., QB; Nehemiah Engleman, Hughes, 5-8, 180, so., RB; Lucas Kunkel, Ross, 5-11, 215, sr., RB; Connor Monk, Franklin, 5-9, 195, sr., RB; Justin Morgan, Western Brown, 5-10, 155, sr., RB; Caden Slusher, Goshen, 6-3, 185, so., QB.
Receivers: Jomar Berg, Goshen, 5-6, 150, jr.; Camar Ellis, Talawanda, 5-10, 165, jr.; Steven Rickman, Wilmington, 6-0, 158, sr.; Aiden Vorhees, Talawanda, 5-11, 175, sr.; Devon Wilcox, Dayton Chaminade Julienne, 5-10, 160, jr.
Linemen: Paul Chaisson, Bellbrook, 6-3, 220, jr.; Jordan Ellis, Talawanda, 6-4, 285, jr.; Marco Keferl, Dayton Carroll, 6-0, 265, sr.; Andrew Lipp, Badin, 6-5, 265, sr.
Athletes: Aidan Caswell, Bellbrook, 6-0, 190,sr.; Ulysses Porter, Dayton Dunbar, 5-9, 170, jr.
Kicker: Griffin Childress, Batavia, 5-9, 145, sr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Colton Back, Talawanda, 5-11, 200, sr.; Aarionte Crooks, Hughes, 6-0, 260, sr.; Garon Draughn, Dayton Carroll, 6-4, 280, sr.; Nigel Hertz, Dayton Chaminade Julienne, 6-0, 200, jr.; Brody Hogge, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 193, sr.
Linebackers: Alex Albrinck, Badin, 6-1, 220, sr.; Bryant Ferguson, Franklin, 5-10, 175, jr.; Kaiden Foulk, Bellefontaine, 6-2 185, sr.; Jesse Keith, Wilmington, 6-3, 220, sr; Jack Kosins, Bellbrook, 5-10, 170, jr.; Trent Owens, Badin, 5-10, 200, sr.
Secondary: Jack Berry, Franklin, 5-10, 190, sr.; A.J. Cooke, Franklin, 5-8, 150, sr.; Andrew Manz, Batavia, 5-9, 150, sr.; Dylan Pawlaczyk, Talawanda, 5-10, 175, sr.; Patrick Stolly, Bellefontaine, 6-1, 162, sr.; Elijah Valdez, Western Brown, 5-11, 165, sr.
Punter: Matthew Tipps, Dayton Carroll, 6-3, 225, jr.
Honorable Mention: Gabe Rammel, Greenville; Emanual Gibbs, Western Brown; Clayton Smith, Western Brown; Bryton Otto, Tipp City Tippecanoe; Jah’Bron Ridley, Hughes; Damion Simpson, Wilmington; Keimon Staples, Hughes; Zac Belmont, McNicholas; Carter Caudill, Bellefontaine, Ioan Cioca, Wilmington; Anthony Clemens, Dayton Chaminade Julienne; Adam Pena, Western Brown; Matthew Tipps, Dayton Carroll; Jay’mal Whitfield, Dayton Dunbar; Jorden Williams, Goshen.
2025 OPSMA Division II All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: DeAunte White, Xenia; Defensive player of the year: Brady Kuhn, Anderson; Coach of the year: Evan Dreyer, Anderson
First-team offense
Backfield: Jordan Davis, Anderson, 5-10, 195, jr., RB; Preston Flick, Harrison, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Andre McConnell, Riverside Stebbins, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Grant Nurre, Kings, 6-4, 215, sr., QB; Owen Scalf, Anderson, 6-2, 180, jr., QB; DeAunte White, Xenia, 5-11, 180, sr, RB.
Receivers: Shawn Fishwick, Xenia, 6-2, 185, sr.; Rayshawn Garrett, Piqua, 6-2, 166, sr.; Andrew Lyman, Kings, 6-3, 185, jr.; Dantrell Moses, Withrow, 5-10, 175, sr.; Armani Rogers, Trotwood-Madison, 5-10, 165, sr.; Tysin Weaver, Anderson, 6-2, 195, jr.
Linemen: Tommy Ehrsam, Xenia, 6-4, 250, sr.; Austin Haig, Monroe, 6-2, 275, sr.; Max Kief, La Salle, 6-5, 270, sr.; Colby Quinlan, Harrison, 6-6, 315, sr.; Patrick Saddler, Withrow, 6-0, 290, sr.; Owen Wells, Kings, 6-5, 215, so.
Athletes: Bryant Lee, Monroe, 6-0, 180, sr.; Jaylen Lilly, Northwest, 5-10, 192, jr.; Colin Wooldridge, La Salle, 6-0, 200, sr.
Kicker: Brady Stidham, Loveland, 5-11, 165, sr.
First-team defense
Linemen: Bariyus Allen, Dayton Belmont, 6-5, 290, jr.; Grant Dallio, Harrison, 6-1, 220, sr.; Louis Freeman, Xenia, 6-2, 200, sr.; Antwoine Higgins, Anderson, 6-4, 235, jr.; Calvin Lorek, Loveland, 6-4 250, sr.; Jamarcus Whyce, Trotwood-Madison, 6-3, 290, sr.
Linebackers: Josh Cassio, Kings, 6-4, 195, sr.; Nolan Ennis, Miamisburg, 5-11, 185, sr.; Brady Kuhn, Anderson, 6-3, 205, sr.; Brody Nickerson, Turpin, 6-0, 220, sr.; Solomon Rothermel, Edgewood, 6-2, 195, sr.; Riley Seibert, Vandalia Butler, 6-2, 215, sr.
Secondary: Ace Alston, Anderson, 6-0, 180, jr.; Darius Dennis, Trotwood-Madison, 6-1, 195, jr.; Jaycee Houston, Withrow, 6-2, 175, sr.; Hezikiah Kelley, Northwest, 6-2, 195, jr.; Ben Markarian, Harrison, 6-0, 190, jr.; Roman Smith, Edgewood, 5-11, 215, sr.
Punter: Henry Feltman, Turpin 6-3, 215, sr.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Aaron Dandrea, Dayton Belmont, 6-2, 200, jr., QB; Debo Knisley, Piqua, 5-6, 155, sr., RB; Brady Lawhon, Harrison, 6-2, 190, jr., QB; Chase Martin, Loveland, 6-1 200, sr., RB; Devin McCormick, Riverside Stebbins, 6-1, 175, jr., QB; Andre Underwood, Aiken, 6-0, 185, sr, QB.
Receivers: Charles Alexander, Withrow, 6-3, 190, jr.; Marcell Jefferson, Riverside Stebbins, 5-11, 155, jr.; Romello Mitchell, Aiken, 6-0, 155, sr.; Hunter Ogdan, La Salle, 6-4, 225, sr.; Evan Overholser, Turpin WR, 6-0, 170, sr,; Julius Rusk, Vandalia Butler, 6-4, 225, sr.
Linemen: Austin Arnold, Turpin, 6-3, 225, sr.; J.J. Cook, Miamisburg, 6-2, 260, jr.; Tony Gardener, Piqua. 6-2, 288, sr.; Teagan Haretuku, Anderson, 6-2, 280, jr.; Carson Holley, Vandalia Butler, 6-3, 295, sr.; Landen Schinbeckler, Loveland, 6-4, 245, sr.
Athletes: Reginald Gardner, Dayton Belmont, 5-7, 160, jr.; Rico Smith, Fairborn, 5-7, 150, jr.; Naseer Salaam, La Salle, 5-9, 177, jr.
Kicker: Gryffin Bradley, Vandalia Butler, 5-9, 150, sr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Jaden Blackshear, Vandalia Butler, 5-10, 240, jr.; Travis Burke, Edgewood, 6-3, 230, sr., Gavin Stromberg, Monroe, 6-1, 240, sr.; Nick Vincent, Riverside Stebbins, 6-5, 285, sr.; Kale Webb, Xenia, 6-3, 275, sr.; Jameer Whyce, Trotwood-Madison, 6-5, 270, so.
Linebackers: Zaydyn Allen, Piqua, 6-1, 193, sr.; Reid Baker, Anderson, 6-2, 205, sr.; David Baldock, Harrison, 6-2, 190, jr.; Otis Boyette, Xenia, 6-1, 180, sr.; Almari Byrd, Fairborn, 6-2, 230, sr.; Brycen Deller, Harrison, 6-2, 210, sr.
Secondary: Keaton Bolden, Piqua, 6-0, 177, sr.: Aaron Phelan, Monroe, 5-11, 185, sr.; Mac Reed, Turpin, 6-3, 180, sr.; Jacob Rudowski, Kings, 6-2, 190, sr; Ricky Thomas, Withrow, 6-1, 190, sr.; Ke’Maury Tye, Anderson, 6-0, 175, sr.
Punter: Parker Seibel, Northwest, 5-11, 175, sr.
Honorable Mention Luke Mileham, Turpin; Chrys Ngoh, Miamisburg; Brody O’Banion, Edgewood; Gage Stephan, Xenia; Cory Rice, Vandalia Butler; Gage Stephan, Xenia; Christian Roether, Harrison; Lucas Williams, Xenia; Bram Hermans, Anderson; Joseph Ingram, West Carrollton; Justyn Lyles, Withrow; Eli Neri, Northwest; Cam Potts, Monroe; Kadyn Robinson, Xenia; Zeb Warrington, Harrison; Eli Appleberry, Trotwood-Madison; Chris Barnes, Withrow; Christion Browner, Withrow; Caleb Buckner, West Carrollton; Ethan Dixon, Northwest; Micah Kelley, Northwest; Quintin Perry, Trotwood-Madison; Brandon Riley, Turpin; Isaiah White, Fairborn; Tyrone Bush-Freeman; Mauricio Castro, Mount Healthy; Ethan Hovekamp, Turpin; Colton Lemons, Miamisburg; Luke Levering, Monroe; Josh Brodnick, Miamisburg; Cristian Corbett, Xenia; Karsyn Curry, Northwest; Brady Gillespie, Turpin; Jayden Harrison, Aiken; Adonus Lilly, Dayton Belmont; Mark Madden, Anderson; Davon Smith, Vandalia Butler; Elijah Sterling, Northwest; James Ahn, Monroe.
2025 OPSMA Division I All-Southwest District Teams
Offensive player of the year: Ryder Hooks, Lakota East; Defensive player of the year: Derek Uran, Elder; Coach of the year: Doug Ramsey, Elder
First-team offense
Backfield: Kaden Estep, Elder, 6-0, 170, jr., QB; Luke Faler, Lebanon, 6-1, 185, sr., QB; Ryder Hooks, Lakota East, 5-8, 185, sr., RB; Max Miller, Springboro, 6-3, 190, jr., QB; Matt Ponatoski, Moeller, 6-1, 200, sr., QB; Christopher Wallace, Springfield, 6-0, 175, jr., QB.
Receivers: Jamier Averette-Brown, Huber Heights Wayne, 6-0, 180, jr.; Noah Bilinski, Springboro, 6-1, 175 jr.; P.J. MacFarlane, Lakota East, 6-5, 215, sr.; Landen Miree, Princeton, 6-4, 230, sr.; Jon’ir Travis, Winton Woods, 5-9, 170, sr.; Reggie Watson, Moeller, 5-6, 165, jr.
Linemen: Bradan Bailey, Hamilton, 6-2, 260, sr.; Jack Harper, Springboro, 6-2, 285, sr.; Marquis Myers, Springfield, 6-2, 253, jr.; Patrick O’Brien, Moeller, 6-5, 292, jr.; Tyrell Scott, Elder, 6-4, 300, sr; Paxton Tengesdahl, Huber Heights Wayne, 6-2, 275, sr.
Athletes: Zion Neal, Princeton, 5-10, 170, sr.; Daniel Vollmer, St Xavier, 6-2, 220, sr.
Kicker: Kofi Adubofuor, Lakota West, 6-1, 192, sr.
First-team defense
Linemen: Eckley Bridges, Hamilton, 6-2, 255, sr.; Christian Harris, Moeller, 6-2, 300, sr.; Reilly Newman, Lakota West, 6-7, 277, jr.; Caillou Robinson, West Clermont, 6-1, 240, sr.; Royce Rogers, Springfield, 6-1, 270, sr.; Derrick Singletary, Middletown, 6-3, 215, sr.
Linebackers: Ja’Kobe Clapper, St Xavier, 6-2, 215, sr.; Jahmiere Daniels-Portis, Springfield, 6-1, 190, jr.; Aden Reeder, St Xavier, 6-3, 215, sr.; Cam Thomas, Lakota West, 6-1, 202, sr.; Derek Uran, Elder, 6-2, 200, sr.; Evan Weinberg, Springboro, 6-3, 225, sr.
Secondary: Chris Bradley, Lakota West, 5-9, 156, jr.; Nate Dawson, Winton Woods, 6-2-185, sr.; Rihyael Kelley, Winton Woods, 6-3, 180, sr.; Brayden Reilly, St Xavier, 6-3, 210, sr.; Jordan Vann, Middletown, 6-1, 205, sr.; Andrew Wells, Princeton, 5-11, 195, sr.
Punter: Henry Greenberg, Springboro, 5-11, 175, sr.
Second-team offense
Backfield: Andre Bailey, Hamilton, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Bryshawn “JuJu” Brown, Winton Woods, 6-6, 200, sr., QB; Logan Doty, Kettering Fairmont, 5-10, 200, jr., RB; Kye Graham, Huber Heights Wayne, 6-2, 195, so., QB; Parker Johnson, Centerville, 5-9, 210, sr., RB; Aiden Kirkpatrick, Troy, 6-0, 192, sr., QB; Deontre Long, Springfield, 5-11, 185, sr., RB; Kenyon Norman, Lakota West, 6-1, 191, jr., RB.
Receivers: Cordell Ball, Oak Hills, 6-2, 177, so.; Lucas Basta, Little Miami, 5-11, 175, sr.; Nick Lautar, Lebanon, 6-5, 235, sr.; Sherrod Lay Jr., Springfield, 5-10, 170, sr.; Cooper McCutchan, Moeller, 6-5, 240, sr.; Semarion Sroufe, Huber Heights Wayne, 5-11, 160, sr.
Linemen: Lenin Aguilar, Mason, 6-7, 285, sr.; Jeremy Bader, Oak Hills, 6-2, 276, sr.; Griffin Chromick, Kettering Fairmont, 6-2, 220, sr.; Danny Fortson Jr., Princeton, 6-4, 275, sr.; Chris Mimms, Winton Woods, 6-3, 285, sr.; Jace Montgomery, Moeller, 6-3, 250, so.
Athletes: Aaron McFarland, Oak Hills, 6-1, 185, sr.; Aidan Gorman, Troy, 5-11, 160, sr.
Kicker: Jack Mallabar, Moeller, 5-11, 215, jr.
Second-team defense
Linemen: Preston Allen, Springfield, 6-2, 275, sr.; Julian Harris, Oak Hills, sr., 6-1, 255, sr.; Mason Holbrook, Hamilton, 6-4, 275, sr.; Terrence Jones, Princeton, 6-2, 220, jr.; Carter Napier, Springboro, 6-3, 255, jr.; Brady Seeley, Centerville, 6-2, 250, sr.
Linebackers: Alex Brown, Mason, 6-2, 215, sr.; C.J. Bryant, Middletown, 5-9, 210, sr.; Conner Cuozzo, Moeller, 6-1, 215, sr.; Alex Dugan, Elder, 6-4, 200, sr.; Max Rhodes, Oak Hills, 6-2, 220, sr.; Axsel Rogers, Fairfield, 6-2, 185, jr.
Secondary: Virgil Coleman, Middletown, 5-9, 165, sr.; Marino Middleton, Moeller, 6-1, 188, jr.; Tre Montgomery, Springfield, 6-0, 183, sr.; Gabe Ross, Fairfield, 6-1, 185, sr.; David Svoboda, Beavercreek, 6-0, 171, sr.; Jamison Webster, Beavercreek, 6-0, 180, jr.
Punter: Orion Bentley, Mason, 6-2, 187, so.
Honorable Mention: DeAngelo Birch, Mason; Shane Cole, Centerville; Roman Garr, Colerain; Will Rivers. Walnut Hills; Jackson Smith, Lakota West; Tommy Becker, Elder; Corrious Booker, Fairfield; Kellen Reeves, Beavercreek; Isaiah Thompson, Huber Heights Wayne; Kameron Thornton, Kettering Fairmont; Andrew Trapp, Little Miami; Landon Young, West Clermont; Chris Bouyer, Lakota East; Jordan Bryant, Hamilton; Ace Cooper, Middletown; Tyson Davis, Lakota West; Desean Flagg Jr., Colerain; Carter Jones, Lakota East; Elijah Jones, Hamilton; Zymir Reed, Middletown; Josh Thornton, Walnut Hills; Conner Berner, Centerville; Gabriel Clyne, Huber Heights Wayne; Cameron Crigler, Fairfield; Robby Flack, Hamilton; Jonas Long, Princeton; Carl Lyttle, West Clermont; Ben McIlvain, Kettering Fairmont; Matt Barth, Troy; Kole Krejny, Kettering Fairmont; Joey Kristbaum, Centerville; Jayden Heinrich, Huber Heights Wayne; Jon Civils, Princeton; Jon Hendrix, Mason; Javion Lewis, Huber Heights Wayne; Jayvion McKinney-Cooper, Winton Woods; Joseph Traore, Fairfield; Hunter Davis, Lebanon; Jake Dixon, Milford; Jon Jackson, Walnut Hills; Pete Fortkamp, Elder; Kobe Lewis, Fairfield; Tanner Meadows, Little Miami; Lucas Mullinger, Centerville; Landon Mullins, Beavefcreek; Dawson Reip, Lakota East; Skyler Slifer, Kettering Fairmont; Nate Canady, Princeton; Laaren Cornwall, Middletown; Sean Heisle, Huber Heights Wayne; Josiah Leonard, Fairfield; Brayden Redd, Huber Heights Wayne.
TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – The FBI was part of a search of multiple properties related to Stansley Mining on Friday, a spokesperson for the agency confirmed.
A Public Affairs Officer for the FBI Cleveland Division confirmed to the 13 Action News I-TEAM that authorities searched a business in the area of Siliva Road in Sylvania, as well as property in Ottawa County by State Route 590 in Benton Township.
Officials with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation told the 13 Action News I-TEAM that they executed a search warrant at the property in Benton Township. Ohio BCI’s environmental division and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency were involved in the search.
It’s unclear exactly what officials were looking for. The FBI spokesperson said there wasn’t additional information to share at this point, but added there is no threat to the public.
Stansley Mining is the entity that owns Rocky Ridge Development, a company at the center of extensive 13 Action News coverage after its South Toledo mining operation was improperly working in a residentially-zoned area.
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CLEVELAND, Ohio — A critically acclaimed name in Cleveland’s food scene is making a comeback of sorts and entering a new era in the food and restaurant business.
After the official closure of Melt Bar and Grilled locations across the area in late 2024, founder Matt Fish is stepping back into the restaurant business with a brand-new concept in Ohio City.
More Melts close
Fish is preparing to open “Proof Public House” inside the former Proof BBQ space along Lorain Avenue.
The new restaurant and bar is expected to officially open in mid-June after recently obtaining its food service license.
The announcement was just made on the restaurant’s official Instagram page this week.
But Fish says this project is very different from Melt’s previous projects, with more than a dozen locations across Ohio.
“I’m starting from scratch. Brand new concept. Brand new feeling, brand new attitude,” Fish said. “I wanna get back to basics.”
Fish describes Proof Public House as a punk rock-inspired neighborhood bar and restaurant with elevated comfort food, craft drinks, and an evolving seasonal menu.
“I’ve always wanted to get back to my roots,” Fish said. “I’ve always wanted to get back to a small place and recapture that magic of what Melt Bar and Grilled was when it first opened up.”
The longtime chef and restaurateur says music and creativity will help define the atmosphere and capture the essence.
Fish grew up on punk rock music and is also a drummer.
He says Cleveland’s history and punk rock roots make this latest project feel even more special.
The menu, he says, will feature chef-driven comfort food with rotating seasonal dishes and a specialized beverage program.
“Just have fun with the menu,” Fish said. “The beverage program will be very seasonal. It’s gonna be very evolving.”
Although many fans still associate Fish with the iconic grilled cheese sandwiches that helped make Melt Bar and Grilled a Northeast Ohio staple after opening in 2006, he says this new chapter is about moving forward.
“That part of my life is over and gone, but it was something special to so many of us,” Fish said.
Still, longtime Melt fans may notice subtle nods to the past.
Fish hinted there would be occasional “odes to Melt” appearing on the menu in the future, in some capacity.
He also credits former Proof BBQ and current Visible Voice Books owner Dave Ferrante for encouraging him to jump back into the hospitality business.
Fish quietly consulted on projects behind the scenes after Melt’s closure, including work connected to Visible Voice.
“I want to do something for myself, do something for the City of Cleveland, do something for my family and friends,” Fish said.
Proof Public House is expected to announce an official opening date soon.
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Ohio, one of the nation’s data center destination hot spots, is suspending a tax break that has been critical to its competition with other states to attract the massive new facilities that power and train artificial intelligence chatbots.
The move Wednesday by Republican Gov. Mike DeWine comes as tax breaks for energy-hungry AI data centers are increasingly playing a role in state budgets and the industry is under pressure to pay the full costs of the vast network of its computing warehouses needed to power AI.
The size of Ohio’s tax break skyrocketed, dwarfing previous projections, as opposition to data centers is sweeping through cities, suburbs and towns there and prompting lawmakers to form a committee to study the impact.
In the meantime, residents are trying to bypass the GOP-controlled Legislature and get a referendum on November’s midterm election ballot that’s designed to permanently ban hyperscale data centers, likely the strictest such statewide ban under consideration in the U.S.
DeWine’s office cited the rising utilization of the tax break and the state Legislature’s new research undertaking to declare a “pause” in granting it to new applicants.
“The governor felt it was the right time to let the citizens know, let businesses know that we’re going to pause on new offers of this tax incentive while that process plays out,” DeWine’s spokesperson, Dan Tierney, said Thursday.
DeWine has stressed that he supports data centers — calling them a critical component in today’s economy — and that the roughly $37 billion in data center-related investments in 2024 and 2025 in the state has been worthwhile.
The state, in 2024, had used previous history in projecting that the exemption would total $136 million in fiscal 2025 and $142 million in fiscal 2026. It was $554 million in 2024 and nearly $1.6 billion in 2025, the state reported.
The resumption of Ohio’s tax break — should it resume — could happen under a new governor: DeWine is term-limited and the race is on to replace him. The Republican nominee, Republican Vivek Ramaswamy — an Ivy League-educated biotech billionaire — likes to talk about turning the Ohio River Valley into the next Silicon Valley.
However, Ramaswamy and Democratic nominee Amy Acton could share the midterm ballot in November with the citizen-led drive to ban the construction of data centers across Ohio. It faces a July 1 deadline to gather more than 400,000 voter signatures.
State tax breaks for the massive data center industry are facing growing criticism by governors and lawmakers.
The cost is likely rising as data center and AI-related investments drive higher consumer spending in the U.S. and tech giants keep boosting their spending commitment to hyperscale data centers.
In Virginia, negotiations between the state House and Senate have been hung up for months on a bid by Senate Democrats to eliminate the roughly $1.6 billion annual tax break.
Thirty-eight states have some form of a sales tax break for data centers, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Many were approved more than five years ago, when data centers were a small, but growing part of the economy, and well before the late 2022 debut of OpenAI’s ChatGPT launched an intensifying buildout of increasingly large data centers.
Ohio’s exemption is fairly broad, applying not only to construction materials, but to the expensive equipment — such as server racks and cooling systems — used in data centers. Operators might buy new server racks every couple of years as the technology improves.
DeWine’s order was a surprise.
Dorsey Hager, executive secretary-treasurer of the Columbus/Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council, where union members spend much of their time on data center projects, said he was upset with DeWine and trying to understand the governor’s reasons.
He worried, he said, that developers that were in the midst of trying to finalize plans or permits for a project might have second thoughts.
Lawmakers acknowledged the opposition in announcing their joint data center committee on May 13.
“We’re well aware of initiatives to limit Ohio data center development during this critical point in America’s history,” state Rep. Adam Holmes told a news conference. “This public concern has become a priority issue for us and could have dramatic impact on Ohio and American’s future.”
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Follow Marc Levy at http://twitter.com/timelywriter
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