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Photo by Franklin Athletics 

History was made for the Franklin wrestling program this summer — and it came in a big way on the state stage. For the first time in program history, the Wildcats produced three state placers at the same tournament this past winter, marking a breakthrough moment for a program that continues to build momentum.

Leading the way were Blaine Napier and Aldin Short, who each earned sixth-place finishes in their respective weight classes, while Jack Berry added an eighth-place showing to round out the historic trio. Short’s performance carried added significance. The freshman became the first in program history to place at the state tournament — an early milestone that signals a promising future for Franklin. Napier capped off a strong run of consistency, finishing his career as a two-time state qualifier and state placer. Berry also closed his career on a high note, earning his second state placement to go along with two state tournament appearances. Dareyan Egner added to the program’s success as well, finishing his career as a three-time state qualifier and a state placer, further cementing his place among the program’s most accomplished wrestlers.

Together, the group delivered a landmark performance for Franklin — one defined not only by podium finishes, but by the continued rise of a program making its presence felt on the state level It was, by every measure, a historic showing for the Wildcats.

Provided Photo

Lily Shumate’s path from the soccer field to the golf course has led to one of the nation’s most prestigious scholarships. The Ross High School senior was awarded the Chick Evans Scholarship through the Western Golf Association, a full housing and tuition award valued at approximately $125,000 over four years.

Shumate earned the honor by meeting the program’s four criteria — strong caddie performance, academics, financial need and character — during her time at Clovernook Country Club. She completed more than 50 loops while maintaining strong grades. One of 21 Ohio recipients this year, Shumate is part of a national class of about 380 Evans Scholars.

A latecomer to golf after growing up playing soccer, Shumate joined Ross’ newly formed girls golf team and quickly excelled, earning first-team all-conference honors and finishing among the top five in the Southwestern Buckeye League. She plans to attend Miami University to study finance.

Photo by Carlisle Local School District

Carlisle High School marked a long-awaited return to its home track Tuesday night, April 7, hosting its first meet in more than 30 years in a dual against Eaton. The meet represented a milestone moment for the program, giving Carlisle athletes the chance to compete on their home surface for the first time in a generation while welcoming the community back to campus for an event decades in the making. Field events began at 4:30 p.m., with running events following at 5:15 p.m. Admission was by donation, and a concession stand was open throughout the evening. Beyond the competition, the meet served as a symbolic step forward for Carlisle’s track and field program — reconnecting past and present while establishing a new home tradition.

PHOTO BY AJ FULLAM / 6SPHOTO

Monroe senior Ryan Buskirk will have one more opportunity to represent her program on a big stage — and she’s bringing a strong senior season with her.

Buskirk has been invited to compete in the Ohio-Kentucky All-Star Game, scheduled for Saturday, April 11 at 5 p.m. at Thomas More University. The event showcases top senior talent from across Ohio and Kentucky.

A 6-foot-1 forward, Buskirk capped her senior campaign as one of Monroe’s most reliable contributors. She started all 24 games, averaging 11.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 47.1% from the field. She also added 1.3 steals per game, impacting both ends of the floor with her length and presence.

The SWBL Junior High Track & Field Championships apparel store is live! CLICK HERE to make your purchases. This store will close to new orders on Sunday April 26^th, 2026 at MIDNIGHT.  ALL orders will be processed, printed AFTER the close of this store, ALL SALES AT THIS POINT ARE FINAL.
 
ALL ORDERS WILL AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE EVENT AT OAKWOOD

PLEASE NOTE: Order emails and credit card charges will show ALLEY CAT DESIGNS, not SWBL.