News

The Enquirer is doing a weekly series this fall called Coaches Confidential.  Area coaches are asked questions, and as the Enquirer states, "The purpose of this exercise is to educate parents, athletes and fans, uplift and encourage athletes to be the best they can be, mentor young coaches, idea share and, in some cases, just have fun."

What qualities do you look for in athletes when you decide on your roster and depth charts? What helps or hurts these players in terms of playing time?  Read HERE

Who is a current Greater Cincinnati high school football coach you respect most, and why?  Read HERE 

What do you consider an ideal parent-coach relationship? What are some best practices parents can take to support their athletes?  Read HERE

What stadium/fanbase gives you the best overall Friday Night Lights experience – home or away? Describe what makes it special from your perspective.  Read HERE

What is the biggest challenge you face as a high school football coach and how are you able to overcome it?  Read HERE

Which Greater Cincinnati football teams have surprised or impressed you to start the season and why? Read HERE

What athletes have impressed you this year, or which athletes do you need a game plan for in future games, and why?  Read HERE

FOOTBALL:  West Clermont won the seventh grade championship in football, while the eighth grade title went to Little Miami.

VOLLEYBALL:  Milford won the regular season championship at the eighth grade level, while the seventh grade title was shared between Milford and Nagel Silver. 

TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS:  Nagel Silver captured the seventh and eighth grade titles at the 2023 ECC Championship tournament, as well as the seventh and eighth grade crowns at the ECC Invitational Tourney!  This year's Conference tourney is slated for October 5 at various sites.

CROSS COUNTRY:  Your 2023 ECC Cross Country Champions were Loveland (girls) and Kings (boys).  This fall's Conference Meet is scheduled for October 12 at Lebanon HS.

LAKOTA EAST INVITATIONAL:  Results from the August 24 Lakota East Invitational can be found HERE.  Congratulations to Loveland boys and girls for capturing first-place team finishes!  For the boys, Loveland's Quinn Mentzer and Benjamin Slater finished first and second respectively, while Brynleigh Scherman and Abby Kaszyca placed first and third respectively for the Lady Tigers.

MOELLER PRIMETIME INVITATIONAL:  Lebanon boys finished second and Nagel girls placed third at the August 23 Moeller Primetime Invite.  Individually, Nagel's Paul Mizukawa finished eighth for the boys and Nagel's Neka Barford was ninth to pace the ECC girls.  Complete results are HERE.

LOVELAND AND LEBANON INVITATIONALS:  A pair of ECC schools hosted cross country invitationals on August 31.  Check out complete results of the Loveland Invite HERE and the Lebanon Invite HERE.  At Loveland, the host Lady Tigers' Brynleigh Scherman finished second in the girls varsity race, while Loveland's Quinn Mentzer was the boys top finisher with his third-place result.  At Lebanon, the Lady Warriors' Brooke Roll finished fifth and Lebanon's Beckett Tarr placed twelfth as the top ECC finisher for the boys.

LITTLE MIAMI INVITATIONAL:  Check out results from the September 7 Little Miami Invitational HERE.  Congratulations to Kings (boys) and to Nagel (girls) for finishing runner-up in the varsity races!  Nagel's Paul Mizukawa (boys) and Neka Barford (girls) were the top ECC placers with third-place finishes.

KINGS INVITATIONAL:  Results from the Kings Invitational from September 10 can be found HERE.  Shout out to the Loveland girls for winning the team title and to the Loveland boys for finishing third.  Top finisher for the boys was the Tigers' Quinn Mentzer who finished second, while the Lady Togers' Brynleigh Scherman placed first for the girls. 

The ECC is again recognizing Athletes of the Week at the middle school level.  Like our conference high schools, coaches will submit their student-athletes and each recipient will be posted here weekly.

WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 8

Nagel Blue volleyball player Molly Dreier is the ultimate teammate.  She is a player who could play all around but takes her time on the bench with a smile.  In this week's match ups, Molly had 12 kills of 28 attempts with no errors.

This week's Nagel Blue eighth grade football Athlete of the Week is Michael Furbay.  While Nagel Blue did not have a game, Michael was a lockdown cornerback in a scrimmage.  He recorded two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown.  Offensively, he also made several difficult catches for huge gains.

Milford volleyball recognizes the following four players:  Kaylin Shifflett (7) is a standout athlete whose drive and determination make her a formidable competitor on the volleyball court. She consistently scores points for her team with her powerful serves, strong attacks, agile digs, and smart game play. Her competitive spirit not only improves her game but also motivates her teammates to elevate their own game and play at a more competitive level.  Greenley Gambrel (8) is a great teammate who can always be counted on to dedicate herself and her energy to her team. I know I, and the rest of her team, can count on her to be there when they need her both on and off the court.  Natalie Nill (7) consistently comes through for the team with amazing serving and clutch defense.  She is also constantly pushing herself to improve and support her teammates.  Piper McCormick (8) is an amazing athlete who rapidly shows growth in her position. If I challenge her to do it, she will not only try with a giant smile, but will oftentimes succeed right away. She is a great teammate and is very resilient.

West Clermont seventh grade football player Caden Courts had a pair of rushing touchdowns and a fumble recovery for a third touchdown in the Wolves' win over Lebanon. 

Loveland cross country salutes eighth graders Julia Galles and Nicholas Gatsos for thier excellent sportsmanship, leadership, and strong performances at the Sacred Heart Invitational.

Nagel seventh grade Silver volleyball Athlete of the Week is Julia Fehrenkamp for clutch serving and excellent passing in our win against Milford.

Nagel seventh grade White volleyball player Chloe Dixon had many digs at the net to help lead us in our win against New Richmond. She brought all the energy on the court and had exceptional passes the whole game. Good work Chloe!

Nagel seventh grade Blue football player Henry Otto is aall business all the time. This running back only has one gear.  When he’s not running the ball at 100 MPH, he's blocking his butt off. Pound for pound one of the toughest players in the state!

West Clermont seventh grade Navy volleyball is thrilled to recognize Trinity Dews as Athlete of the Week. Over the past few weeks, Trinity has demonstrated remarkable growth and dedication to her sport. She has consistently shown a strong commitment to improving her skills and pushing herself to new levels. Trinity is always willing to be flexible and adapt to any situation, whether it’s stepping into a new role on the team or adjusting to last-minute changes. She approaches every challenge with a positive attitude and a team-first mentality, and we look forward to seeing her continue to shine!

In only his second cross country race ever, Winton Woods eighth grader Kylan Smith finished tenth of 103 runners at the Sacred Heart Invitational on Thursday at Harbin Park. His time on the hilly two-mile course (13:17) was 28 seconds faster than his performance at the flatter Loveland Invitational five days earlier. 

Middle hitter Emsley Allen and defensive specialist Cailynn Hawk have led Lebanon's eighth grade White volleyball team in several scoring categories thus far this season. Emsley has served 27-of-29 for 93 percent with 18 service points, seven aces, and a team-leading 14 kills. Cailynn has served 31-of-32 for a team best of 97 percent and 21 service points with seven aces. Super serving Emsley and Cailynn!

Nagel tennis doubles team of Charlotte Ward and Zoey Johnson are returning players from last season.  Charlotte and Zoey love playing together!  They have fun, but at the same time, they take their tennis very seriously.  They have been working so hard in practice to improve their skills.  Charlotte and Zoey have been playing mainly exhibition doubles, but last week, they won their first-ever non-exhibition doubles match vs. Sycamore.  The girls are on their way to becoming high school level players.  Congrats Charlotte and Zoey!  This was such a well-deserved win! 

Nagel eighth grade Silver volleyball players Alana Michaelis and Quinn Sankal are both team captains, each with unique qualities and leadership styles that contribute to their team's success. Alana is a strategic leader, making decisions on the court in methodical ways with a calm demeanor. She excels in reading the game and making real-time adjustments. Quinn is our team's motivational leader - always positive and inspirational. Her passion for the game and fostering of team camaraderie creates a cohesive group. Their different strengths complement each other well. Congratulations to both for being Athletes of the Week!

Nagel eighth grade cross country runner Anna Logan ran an amazing race at the Little Miami Invite on Saturday.  She PR'd by over a minute, running 12:58.5 and taking sixth place in the Team Race. 

West Clermont co-ed golf had many bests this week. Eighth grader Austin Hesketh led the Navy team with a 69 at the Championship Division at the Little Miami Invitational. This was one of the best scores in the tournament.  Austin consistently scores low at every match and tournament.  Sixth grader Charlie Fries was medalist this week, leading the Gray team to its first win as he shot his best score of the season in rainy conditions.  Seventh grader Taylor Elekes shot her best score of the season as she led the Gray team at the Little Miami Invite. Taylor continues to work hard, and it is paying off with her scores.  Seventh grader Landen Thompson shot his best score of the season by eight strokes and continues to be one of the hardest working players on the team.  Way to go Austin, Charlie, Taylor, and Landen! 

Loveland seventh grade football players of the week are Liam Haddad and Cameron Hermann. Liam led the team in big defensive stops, while Cameron led the offense in receiving yards and scoring. 

The Nagel girls golf team wins the Middle School Open and remains undefeated in regular season matches tournaments since 2021! Rachel Lunn wins Medalist honors. 

The Nagel boys B golf team entered three teams in the Middle School Open Par 3 Division; teams finished in first, fourth and sixth. Taylor Hensley finished third. 

The Nagel boys golf team remains undefeated in 2024 regular season matches at 5-0 and takes third in Middle School Open Championship Division. Logan Kramer finished in fifth place. 

Nagel golfers Mason Diersing and Alex Schrager are recognized for personal best rounds. 

With having a new position on the volleyball team this season, West Clermont eighth grade Navy volleyball player Tinsley Botting has done nothing but amaze me with her beautiful sets! She has picked up on the skill very fast, and I know I can always count on her to play her part. We love having her positive attitude out there on the court! 

The Kings seventh grade football Knights were led to victory this week against Little Miami by Sammy Smith.  Sammy made key plays on both sides of the ball - running, throwing, catching, and tackling!  Way to go Sammy!

West Clermont cross country runner Sabrina Hoket ran a personal-best time of 14:02.2 at the Little Miami Invitational on Saturday. Each meet she keeps dropping time. Her hard work is paying off!

WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 1

Outside hitters Kami Ferris and Hailey Smith led the Lebanon eighth grade White volleyball team this week with solid performances in their matches against Kings and Carroll. Kami served 15-out-of 16 for 94 percent with nine service points, four aces, nine serves received, four digs, and a save. Hailey served 13-out of-14 for 93 percent with nine service points, 10 serves received, seven digs, and two saves. Great job, Kami and Hailey!

Nagel eighth grade Navy volleyball player Taylor Fender helped led her team to its first win this season over Nagel Blue. She has been such a key component for the team as our setter. Taylor won’t let any ball drop that’s hers, she’ll even run you over to make sure she gets it! 

Lebanon eighth grade Maroon volleyball player Emma Tompkins set with grace and speed during a tough loss to Nagel Silver this past week.  Her stamina pushed the Lady Warriors to the 28-30 score.  Emma came back to set very well for the win against Winton Woods.

This week’s Nagel eight grade Silver Athlete of the Week is Millie Dold, whose exceptional performance on the volleyball court has truly stood out. Millie dedicated herself to improving all aspects of her game during the offseason, and that hard work was evident in last week’s challenging set against Lebanon. When the team ran out of substitutions, Millie stepped up and led her team to victory with two clutch serves, securing a thrilling 30-28 win.  Off the court, Millie’s dedication make her a role model for her teammates, as she skillfully balances her athletic and academic commitments. Her recognition as Athlete of the Week is a testament to her commitment and perseverance. Congratulations, Millie! We look forward to more of your outstanding achievements.

Due to the heat this week, we didn’t have a game. So let’s give a “Big Cheese” some love.  Jackson Taylor is the Athlete of the Week for seventh grade Blue football squad. From day one, all Jackson has done is show up and kick butt while anchoring the OLine at the center position. 

Nagel 8 Blue football player Cam Derrickson made his first start as an offensive lineman last week at Walnut Hills and was a dominant force in the running game.  He has picked the offense up quickly, and only continues to improve his skills.  His leadership, tenacity, and work ethic are the reasons that Nagel's coaches have selected Cam as the squad's Athlete of the Week.

Loveland eighth grade volleyball player Brooke Montgomery led the team this week in aces and serve attempts.  Brooke has done a wonderful job of hyping up her team and controlling the flow of the game.  Great Job Brooke!

Loveland cross country nominates Macy Weiland (8th grade) and Jonah Partusch (7th grade) for their steady improvement, work ethic, and performances at the Loveland Invitational and throughout the season. 

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 25

Lebanon's Mandy Ludwick served from point eight to set win point 25 on16 serves with six were aces on Monday against Nagel Blue. 

Co-captain Caroline Wallace, setter and right side hitter for Lebanon's eighth grade White volleyball team, led her team in its first three matches of the 2024 season. Caroline served 15-of-16 for 94 percent with nine service points, five aces, two kills, five assists, six serves received, and a dig.  As co-captain, Caroline has proved herself as a team leader.

Nagel seventh grade Silver volleyball player Hayley Loehner is recognized for her hustle and effort at practice. 

Milford Red seventh grade golfer Jordan Hurst was a two-time medalist this week with scores of 36 on the back 9 at Armco vs. Kings and 38 on the back 9 at Eagles Nest vs. Maderia.  Jordan helped lead the team to a 2-0 record!

In a span of one week, Nagel seventh grade Blue football player Daylen "Day Day" Alston had a 90-yard touchdown fumble recovery and followed up with a interception.  Day Day is a smooth “ball hawking” player who has a bright future.

Little Miami eighth grade Gold volleyball player Eva Farsing had great serve receive and defense this week to lead our team passing.  Eva works hard and focuses during practice, and it shows in her ability to lead her team on the court.  

Billy Strader was a dominant player on the offensive line that opened freeway-sized holes for the Nagel Blue eighth grade football rushing attack. Billy has been a consistent leader since practice started and also added a few defensive stops for a dominant Nagel Blue defense. 

This week’s Nagel eighth grade Silver volleyball Athlete of the Week is Mackenzie Bugg, whose outstanding performance on the volleyball court has been nothing short of stellar. With her impressive net play, perfect serves, and key setting, Mackenzie led her team to a decisive victory. Her game sense and execution under pressure have been crucial to her team’s success. Off the court, Mackenzie’s sportsmanship and dedication make her a role model for her teammates, balancing her athletic and academic commitments with grace. Her recognition as Athlete of the Week reflects her hard work and leadership. Congratulations, Mackenzie!  We look forward to seeing more of your achievements.

Loveland cross country recognizes eighth graders Brynleigh Scherman and Quinn Mentzer for their leadership and for winning the girls and boys race respectively at the Lakota East Classic. 

West Clermont eighth grade Navy volleyball player Ambry McCloskey always has the best attitude no matter if we’re winning or losing. I know if I ever need a helping hand to get us out of a rut during a game, I can count on her!  Teammate Bella Swisshelm had a great game against Loveland this past week.  She got eight kills, six aces, and three blocks!  It is such a pleasure to have Bella on our volleyball team. 

Nagel's number 1 doubles team of Ruby Celenza and Elise Altenau won a close one against Indian Hill last week!  They stayed focused and determined to execute their shots through several lead changes for over two hours of battling. Ruby and Elise are an experienced doubles team; they were successful as seventh graders, and they are certainly continuing their winning ways! 

Nagel seventh grade Blue volleyball player Alex Barton played through a small inury and led her team to victory over Kings with impressive serving stats of eight aces out of 14 serve attempts.

Lebanon seventh grade football player Rowan Barnes led the offensive effort in a win over Loveland by compiling over 250 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns.  Defensively, Michael Banta led the way with nine tackles, including six for loss.

Loveland eighth grade volleyball player Addy Reynolds is recognized for her ability to adjust to any position that she is asked to play.  Addy stepped up with some blocks and kills in our match against Wyoming as well as being player of the match in our win against West Clermont.  Way to go Addy!

West Clermont co-ed golf recognizes Austin Hesketh for being medalist with a 39 on the regulation course at Little Miami.  Austin continues to get at least one birdie every round.  Mackenzie Kelley was able to improve by eight strokes this week due to her hard work and dedication.  John Kelley was medalist at Reeves Par 3 with an even par 27.  John carded two birdies that round.  Way to work hard Austin, Mackenzie, and John.

West Clermont 7th grade Navy volleyball player Frankie Morley is the epitome of dedication and effort, consistently giving 110 percent in both practice and games. Her commitment to improving her skills is unmatched—whether it’s putting in extra reps, or stepping up during tough moments in a match. Frankie’s eagerness to adapt and grow not only sets her apart as an individual but also makes her a strong leader who inspires her teammates to push beyond their limits.  Equally impressive is Riley Byrd, whose remarkable growth in just the first few weeks of the season has not gone unnoticed. Riley comes to practice every day with a positive attitude and a determination to improve. Her willingness to take corrections and learn new skills is a testament to her dedication to the sport. Riley’s rapid development and enthusiasm are infectious, motivating the entire team to work harder and aim higher.

Loveland seventh grade football player Austin Heideman is a two-way player who led the team in all-purpose yards and was an impact player on defense against Lebanon. 

Nagel seventh grade White volleyball player Ava Edwards played strong in our team's wins this past week. Her high energy and positive attitude led the team to come back in sets 2 and 3 for an overall win in both games. She always goes above and beyond to encourage and motivate her teammates as well as her coach. I know I can always count on her strong serves and strong presence on and off the court. Good job this week Ava and congratulations!

Milford seventh grade Red volleyball player Ava Smith has been putting in the hard work!  She has been pushing herself to make changes to her game to improve herself, and it shows!  She takes coaching well and never gives up!  She is a true team player! Keep up the good work, Ava!

The seventh grade football Knights were led by Jackson Paris and Elijah Woodard this week at Milford. Both played big roles in leading their team and encouraging their teammates to play their best!  Keep up the great work Jackson and Elijah! 

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 18

West Clermont eighth grade Navy volleyball recognizes a pair of players.  Ever since volleyball open gyms started, Anniston Redmond was always a great team leader. After making the Navy team, she stepped up big in the leadership role, constantly cheering on her team and congratulating each individual player if they had a good play.  I cannot wait to have her this season!  Zoey Hall has worked very hard during practice to best prepare for our games which are quickly approaching (opening match is Monday the 19th).  Whenever an error occurs, she immediately asks me what she could be doing better, and she takes the feedback very well. It is an honor to have her; she is also the girl who gets everyone laughing!  I’m very excited to see where this season takes Zoey! 

West Clermont seventh grade volleyball players Lexi Schaeffer and Mia Strunk have already made a significant impact on and off the court, setting the tone for an exciting season. Both athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and determination. They are encouraging and motivating to their teammates, and they always show up with a positive attitude and ready to work.

West Clermont volleyball player Kennedy Brown played her hardest and went after every ball in our sets against Milford. In a tough game, she kept her head straight and didn't let the score affect her mentality to dive for every ball. 

West Clermont cross country runner Bryce Derflinger is always ready to give his all at practices, running more and faster each week, and is always asking questions about how to improve his time and performance.  Bryce recorded a time of 12:54.40 for the 2 mile last year as a seventh grader.

WEEK ENDING AUGUST 25

Lebanon's Mandy Ludwick served from point eight to set win point 25 on16 serves with six were aces on Monday against Nagel Blue. 

Co-captain Caroline Wallace, setter and right side hitter for Lebanon's eighth grade White volleyball team, led her team in its first three matches of the 2024 season. Caroline served 15-of-16 for 94 percent with nine service points, five aces, two kills, five assists, six serves received, and a dig.  As co-captain, Caroline has proved herself as a team leader.

Nagel sevneth grade Silver volleyball player Hayley Loehner is recognized for her hustle and effort at practice. 

Milford Red seventh grade golfer Jordan Hurst was a two-time medalist this week with scores of 36 on the back 9 at Armco vs. Kings and 38 on the back 9 at Eagles Nest vs. Maderia.  Jordan helped lead the team to a 2-0 record!

In a span of one week, Nagel seventh grade Blue football player Daylen "Day Day" Alston had a 90-yard touchdown fumble recovery and followed up with a interception.  Day Day is a smooth “ball hawking” player who has a bright future.

Little Miami eighth grade Gold volleyball player Eva Farsing had great serve receive and defense this week to lead our team passing.  Eva works hard and focuses during practice, and it shows in her ability to lead her team on the court.  

Billy Strader was a dominant player on the offensive line that opened freeway-sized holes for the Nagel Blue eighth grade football rushing attack. Billy has been a consistent leader since practice started and also added a few defensive stops for a dominant Nagel Blue defense. 

This week’s Nagel eighth grade Silver volleyball Athlete of the Week is Mackenzie Bugg, whose outstanding performance on the volleyball court has been nothing short of stellar. With her impressive net play, perfect serves, and key setting, Mackenzie led her team to a decisive victory. Her game sense and execution under pressure have been crucial to her team’s success. Off the court, Mackenzie’s sportsmanship and dedication make her a role model for her teammates, balancing her athletic and academic commitments with grace. Her recognition as Athlete of the Week reflects her hard work and leadership. Congratulations, Mackenzie!  We look forward to seeing more of your achievements.

Loveland cross country recognizes eighth graders Brynleigh Scherman and Quinn Mentzer for their leadership and for winning the girls and boys race respectively at the Lakota East Classic. 

West Clermont eighth grade Navy volleyball player Ambry McCloskey always has the best attitude no matter if we’re winning or losing. I know if I ever need a helping hand to get us out of a rut during a game, I can count on her!  Teammate Bella Swisshelm had a great game against Loveland this past week.  She got eight kills, six aces, and three blocks!  It is such a pleasure to have Bella on our volleyball team.