In a significant development for high school athletics in Northeast Ohio, eight school districts have announced the formation of a new interscholastic athletic league.This league, which currently does not have a name, is set to begin competition in the 2028-29 school year and will consist of schools from Carroll, Stark, and Tuscarawas counties.
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cantonrep.comtimesreporter.comThe founding members of this new league are Carrollton Exempted Village Schools, Claymont City Schools, Fairless Local Schools, Marlington Local Schools, Minerva Local Schools, Sandy Valley Local Schools, Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools, and Tuslaw Local Schools.
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timesreporter.comjordanmiller.newsThese institutions share deep-rooted athletic traditions and decades of competitive history, many of which trace back to the former Senate League, further emphasizing their commitment to preserving local rivalries that have defined high school sports for generations.
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timesreporter.comjordanmiller.newsRepresentatives from the founding superintendents expressed that "these schools are bound by more than geography." They highlighted a shared commitment to providing competitive, student-centered athletic and scholastic opportunities, indicating that the new league aims to uphold the traditions that have historically filled stadiums and energized communities during athletic competitions.
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timesreporter.comjordanmiller.newsThe league will bring together schools that have been competing across three different conferences: the Eastern Buckeye Conference (EBC), the Principals Athletic Conference (PAC-7), and the Inter-Valley Conference (IVC).Carrollton, Minerva, and Marlington have been part of the EBC since its inception in 2018, while Sandy Valley, Tuscarawas Valley, and Claymont belong to the IVC.Fairless and Tuslaw are current members of the PAC-7.
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cantonrep.comjordanmiller.newsIn their announcement, the superintendents emphasized the need for competitive balance among member programs.They noted that all schools involved compete at similar levels across various sports, which is expected to facilitate consistent scheduling and enhance postseason preparation.
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timesreporter.comjordanmiller.newsThe goal of the new conference is to provide stability for students, coaches, and communities, as articulated by the superintendents: "Our goal is stability...The conference is built to last.".
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cantonrep.comtimesreporter.comThe establishment of this league is seen as a significant opportunity for both student-athletes and the communities served by the member schools.By continuing and formalizing rivalries that span decades, the league not only aims to maintain tradition but also to offer long-term structure and stability.
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timesreporter.comjordanmiller.newsAdditional details regarding league bylaws, competition schedules, and the hiring of a conference commissioner will be shared in the future.The formation of this new conference represents a proactive move by these schools to enhance their athletic programs while reinforcing community ties through shared sports experiences.
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timesreporter.comjordanmiller.newsAs the 2028-29 school year approaches, anticipation grows for how this new league will shape the future of high school athletics in the region, encouraging spirited competition and community involvement.
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cantonrep.comjordanmiller.newsIn conclusion, this new athletic alliance is a promising step forward for the schools involved, aiming to strengthen their historical rivalries and provide a stable framework for student-athletes in Carroll, Stark, and Tuscarawas counties.
