COLUMBUS (WLIO) — The Ohio High School Athletic Association has released its new divisional breakdowns for the 2026 football season, bringing several changes across West Central Ohio.
A total of 37 schools statewide are moving up a division. Locally, Coldwater and Bluffton both shift from Division VI to Division V. Lima Central Catholic, Ada and Columbus Grove move from Division VII to Division VI, joined by defending Division VII state champion St. Henry.
Several teams are also moving down. Findlay drops from Division I to Division II, pending a potential opt-up decision. Bath shifts to Division V, while Versailles moves from Division V to Division VI. Ayersville, Hicksville and Wayne Trace are among the Green Meadows Conference schools dropping to Division VII.
There are also broader impacts across the state. Toledo Central Catholic and Division III state champion Bishop Watterson both move up to Division II. Division V champion Liberty Center drops to Division VI, while Division VI runner-up Hopewell-Loudon moves to Division VII. Division VII runner-up Hillsdale moves up to Division VI.
Schools are permitted to begin summer practices without pads starting May 15.
Adam Solomon
Sports Director
