Avon Eagles kick off their football season with three challenging opponents: St. Ignatius, Pine-Richland, and Upper Arlington. As back-to-back Ohio High School Athletic Association Division II champions, the Eagles are taking on powerful teams known for their competitive records. Coach Mike Elder emphasizes the goal of winning the Southwestern Conference, not just focusing on a perfect start to the season. Despite past struggles from St. Ignatius, the new coach brings fresh energy and expectations. The Eagles are eager for high-stakes games that test their mettle.

By the Numbers
  • Avon has won 11 out of 12 opening games over the last few seasons.
  • St. Ignatius had a 1-10 record last season; Upper Arlington went 55-14 since 2021.
State of Play
  • Avon is determined to compete for a Southwestern Conference title this year.
  • St. Ignatius has a new head coach, Tom Kaufman, who aims to revitalize the team.
  • Pine-Richland is recognized as one of Western Pennsylvania鈥檚 top programs.
What's Next

The Eagles will face St. Ignatius on August 21, followed by Pine-Richland on August 28 and Upper Arlington on September 4. The performances in these games will set the tone for their pursuit of league dominance as they prepare to build team chemistry and gauge their competitive edge.

Bottom Line

Avon's commitment to challenging matchups reflects their desire to build resilience and competitiveness, crucial for their conference aspirations. The focus remains on growth throughout the season rather than a flawless record, as they aim to position themselves for a strong playoff run.