Inside the Lines

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James open with a look at the state wrestling scene and Mansfield Senior’s regional semifinal loss before welcoming Hillsdale sophomore point guard Lowen Ferguson into the studio fresh off a thrilling regional final win. Ferguson breaks down the chaotic fourth quarter against Heartland and how the Falcons executed under pressure to earn their ticket to state. He also reflects on the unique experience of playing for his father as head coach and the expectations that accompany it. Looking ahead, Ferguson shares Hillsdale’s mindset heading into the state semifinals and what it would mean to finish the journey with a championship. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad opens with his reaction to Mansfield Senior’s head coaching change in football before welcoming Ontario senior Aiden Ohl, now the winningest wrestler in program history. Ohl talks about carrying the weight of a family legacy in Ontario wrestling, surpassing even his own expectations as a freshman and what it feels like competing under the bright lights at the state tournament in Value City Arena. He reflects on lessons learned from an ankle injury, intense rivalries like his battles with Clear Fork’s Colton Wenger and what it would mean to become Ontario’s fifth state champion. Ohl also dives into his favorite wrestling styles, the strength of north central Ohio’s wrestling fraternity and why he ultimately chose Ohio University to continue his career at the next level.   This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism. Related reading: Champs for a 4th time: State-ranked Ontario, Galion wrestlers crowned again at MOAC

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James welcome Mansfield Senior sophomore Kaylen Brooks into the studio for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with remembering former Lexington coach Steve Gray and touches on Effie’s new podcast, Beyond the Scoreboard. Kaylen reflects on stepping into varsity basketball as a freshman and setting a program record with 299 points, the differences between AAU and high school basketball, and how a summer spent in the weight room helped him take the next step as a sophomore. He breaks down the chemistry of this year’s Tyger team, navigating adversity -- including a triple-overtime thriller against Ashland -- and what it means to already have his first college offer from Youngstown State. The episode wraps with rapid-fire questions and Kaylen’s vision for a storybook ending to the season.   This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism. Find our high school sports page here to read more local coverage. 

In this episode of Inside the Lines, host Curt Conrad is joined by co-producer Zac Hiser for a conversation with Galion wrestler Gradey Harding. Harding is the first wrestler we've had in studio. We talked with him about the difference between folk style and Greco-Roman wrestling, what his diet and workout regimen looks like and he takes us through some of the most memorable matches from his high school career.  Harding has signed a national letter of intent to wrestle for Division 1 Buffalo in college next year. He talked about why he chose Buffalo, what NIL looks like for college wrestlers and his future aspirations after college. We also talked about an upcoming state wrestling title run for Harding and what that would mean to him as he looks to become the fourth ever state wrestling champion from Galion High School.  This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Hayden Gray open the show by previewing the state championship matchups for Shelby (Div. IV), Hillsdale (Div. VII) and Olentangy Orange (Div. I). Conrad and Gray then welcome in Shelby senior linebacker Sam Gwirtz. The quarterback of the Whippet defense, Gwirtz has helped lead Shelby to its first-ever state championship game. The Whippets will play Cleveland Glenville at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton this Friday at 10:30 a.m. Gwirtz talks about Shelby's season as a whole, as well as what it will take to capture a Division IV state title on Friday. The senior also discusses his position change entering high school and how he regained his love for the sport between his sophomore and junior seasons. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism. Read more: Dream to reality: Shelby football earns first state final bid in program history Get to know Glenville: Shelby to collide with battle-tested Tarblooders

In this week’s episode, we break down Ashland QB Nathan Bernhard’s sudden flip from Appalachian State to Maryland and what Ohio’s new NIL ruling could mean for high school athletes moving forward. Then we welcome Hillsdale’s Brady Heller into the studio to recap the Falcons’ hard-fought win over Danville, the importance of depth as injuries stack up and how he’s stepped in on both sides of the ball. Brady reflects on last year’s state title run, the expectations they carry now and previews Hillsdale’s state semifinal matchup with McDonald, including what bringing home a championship would mean to him and the community.   Related stories:  Hillsdale tops Danville in another instant classic Tradition awaits: Hillsdale meets McDonald & its 100 years of football history Great Expectations: Added pressure hasn’t bothered Hillsdale, Shelby in pursuit of state titles This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom. 

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James open the show by paying homage to former Mansfield Hawks coach Kevin Mackey, who passed away last week at the age of 79. The duo then brings listeners up to speed on where local teams from Richland, Ashland and Knox counties stand in the high school football playoffs as regional final Friday approaches. Conrad and James move to conversation with Galion senior QB Ayden Schmidt, who has led the Tigers to a regional final against Shelby -- the deepest Galion has made it in the postseason since 1985. Schmidt touches on everything from his childhood and move to Galion in middle school, to the Tigers' sensational season and the opportunity to play at Arlin Field this Friday. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism. Read more: Hay Day: Galion twins come up big in win over Sandusky Perkins It’s official: Shelby-Galion football rematch coming Friday at Arlin Field

In this week’s episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad, Hayden Gray and Zac Hiser break down the third week of Ohio’s new-look postseason -- where the top seeds are holding strong and north central Ohio teams are still making noise. We start with a post-mortem on Lexington and Ashland after tough playoff losses, and look ahead to what’s next for both programs in 2026. Then the focus shifts to Shelby, which faces a high-powered Lima Bath squad led by one of the region’s most explosive offenses, and Galion who is making their deepest playoff run since the 1980s. We preview a massive Division V showdown between Centerburg and Colonel Crawford, where the winner punches a ticket to the regional final, and check in on Hillsdale and Danville as both powerhouses look to stay on a collision course for a potential rematch. With weather on their side and four of five area teams hosting, we set the stage for another action-packed Friday night of playoff football. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom. 

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James kick things off discussing the first round of the 2025 OHSAA football playoffs before welcoming Lexington senior Seven Allen. Allen reflects on his introduction to football as a freshman at Madison to becoming a standout senior on a star-studded Lexington squad. He talks about his transition to Lexington and the opportunity to play with childhood friends. Allen also touches on the growth of he and his Lex teammates over the past three years, both physically and mentally, as well as the ability to block out the outside noise. As Lexington heads into the playoffs after a first round bye, Allen shares what it will take to overcome a talented Toledo Central Catholic team -- which knocked the Minutemen out of the postseason last year. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more: Allen, Minutemen take OCC revenge on Ashland, grab outright title Rematch: Lexington hosts Toledo Central Catholic Friday in Division III football playoffs

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James kick things off discussing the OHSAA’s stunning decision to ban Ironton from the 2025 playoffs before welcoming Hillsdale senior running back Owen Sloan -- the program’s all-time leading rusher. Sloan reflects on his journey from a freshman getting early playing time to becoming a four-year leader and the heart of a senior class that’s been playing together since youth football. He talks about the lessons learned from Hillsdale’s state runner-up season, the motivation born from last year’s championship loss to Marion Local and how the team has approached this season with a renewed focus and confidence. Sloan dives into the culture of Hillsdale football, the bond between teammates, and how experience, chemistry and accountability drive their pursuit of a state title. He also discusses the influence of his father -- former Mount Union standout Justin Sloan -- and how film study and discipline have shaped his game. As Hillsdale heads into the playoffs as a top seed, Sloan shares what it will take to finish the job this time and paints a picture of his perfect ending to a decorated high school career.  This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more: Norwayne holds off Hillsdale, wins second straight WCAL crown 2nd-half barrage fuels Hillsdale’s pounding of Rittman Hillsdale clinches home playoff game, remains atop Region 27 computer ratings

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James talk with Fredericktown senior tight end and defensive end Gavin Toombs, one of North Central Ohio’s top football recruits. Gavin shares what it’s been like navigating the college recruiting process, what he’s looking for in a future program and how the recent NIL developments in high school sports could impact players like him. He reflects on a standout performance against Danville, where he filled in at running back and rushed for four touchdowns, and discusses the arrival of head coach Scott Spitler, the physical Wing-T offense and how Fredericktown has responded to both early wins and tough in-conference losses this season. Looking ahead to the “Freddie-Burg” rivalry game against Centerburg, Gavin talks about what the matchup means to the community and how the Freddies plan to make a deep playoff run after clinching a postseason berth. Off the field, he shares his passion for basketball, where he’s an all-Ohio standout with college interest, and the goals he and his teammates have for a strong senior season. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions on Fredericktown history, Halloween candy rankings and where the Freddie-Burg trophy will call home next. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  It's also sponsored by the Knox Parent Support Initiative.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Toombs subs at RB, scores 4 TDs to power Fredericktown past Danville Fredericktown holds off East Knox in tight KMAC duel Fredericktown survives surprising overtime challenge from Loudonville

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James sit down with Crestview senior quarterback and pole vaulter Liam Kuhn. Liam reflects on following in the footsteps of his father and older brothers, learning how to read defenses, and growing into a calm, composed leader for the Crestview offense. He talks about how playing both sides of the ball and learning from failures has helped him and the team improve, as well as how the front six on defense has eased pressure on the offense. Liam also shares what it means to beat rival St. Paul, the keys to Crestview’s current win streak and what it will take to succeed in the playoffs. Beyond football, Liam opens up about his love for pole vaulting, the techniques and athletic skills required, and his aspirations to compete at the collegiate level, with interest from Ashland University and Hillsdale College. He discusses the importance of facilities, coaching and scholarship opportunities in track & field, and how competing in multiple sports helps him grow as an athlete. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions covering family rivalries, Crestview history and who the best athlete in the Kuhn family is. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Kuhn keys Crestview’s critical win over St. Paul in FC tilt Crestview’s defense blanks Plymouth in Homecoming victory Cougars get defensive in win over South Central Crestview wallops New London in Firelands Conference opener Tough schedule helps Cougars lock down 1st win, prepare for Firelands foes

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad, Hayden Gray and Zac Hiser sit down with Mount Vernon senior quarterback Mason Richards, the area’s leading rusher and team captain. Mason reflects on his record-breaking single-game performance — 310 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns in a thrilling 35-34 OT win over Johnstown. He talks about how his leadership and approach to the game have evolved since being named a captain as a sophomore, and what it would mean for Mount Vernon to surpass six wins and reach the playoffs for the first time in years. The conversation also touches on the resilience of the Mount Vernon team, Mason’s expectations for upcoming matchups, and his aspirations to play at the next level, potentially at a DIII program. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, including who leads “The Hive,” his responsibilities as Homecoming King, and what he hopes people remember about the 2025 Mount Vernon football team. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  It's also sponsored by the Knox Parent Support Initiative.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Marion Local extends winning streak on controversial call Mount Vernon shocks Newark to reignite football rivalry Yellow Jackets snatch thrilling overtime win from Johnstown First computer ratings show Mount Vernon in hunt for playoff bid Yellow Jackets sting Zanesville with decisive shutout

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James welcome Lexington senior Dantrell Hughes, a standout WR/DB and track athlete who has Division I college offers. Dantrell reflects on the resilience of this senior class, how long-standing relationships have helped them bond and succeed and what it was like to overcome an injury last year that sidelined him. He shares the high expectations the team has for itself on and off the field, the improvements they’ve made from last season and how competing in both track and football has shaped his athletic growth. The conversation dives into Dantrell’s perspective on playing both sides of the ball, how he maximizes his impact defensively and where he sees himself at the next level. He also discusses the unique experience of competing alongside his twin brother Latrell. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions covering everything from homecoming plans to pre-game meals to college aspirations. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Find coverage here on the Youngstown Ursuline situation, which we discuss briefly at the top of the episode Caudill, Lex top Ontario for first time since 2021 Game on: Stars will be out when Shelby hosts Lexington under Friday Night Lights Caudill, Fogle lead Lexington past Clear Fork in thriller Lexington takes runner-up honors at Division I state track championship

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James are joined by Shelby senior Carter Kessler, who transferred last school year from Mansfield Senior. Carter talks about the thrill of attending Ohio State’s night game against Ohio University, what it’s like to stand in front of 105,000 fans and weighing options like walking on at OSU versus committing to a school like West Virginia. He shares the reasons behind his transfer, how he was welcomed into the Shelby brotherhood and the challenges of learning a new offense and defense while fitting into a top-ranked program. Carter also reflects on playing alongside one of the state’s best athletes, Brayden DeVito, and how he’s growing as a leader while helping Shelby maintain its 17-game regular-season win streak. He discusses his favorite positions, modeling his game after standout edge rushers and what he brings to the team on and off the field. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions covering everything from Shelby vs. Mansfield Senior "this or that" to college goals and how he spends time off the field. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Pressure is a privilege: Shelby shines bright in star-studded Week 2 matchup

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James sit down with Centerburg junior Jackson Ballinger, a tight end and edge rusher making waves both on the field and in the classroom. Jackson shares what it’s been like juggling college recruiting visits — from Duke to Alabama to Florida — while keeping up with all his classes and leading his team. He reflects on the thrill of receiving his first offer as a freshman and what he's looking for in a college program beyond NIL opportunities.  Jackson also discusses what he's learned from last season’s playoff run and Centerburg’s first playoff victory since 2014. He opens up about his growth as a leader, the lessons he carries over from being a track & field athlete and how he approaches offense versus defense. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions about his favorite subjects, a player he models himself after in the NFL and even the Centerburg Oldtime Farming Festival. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  It's also sponsored by the Knox Parent Support Initiative.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Centerburg 2025 team preview Mistakes haunt Centerburg in loss to Northmor

In Episode 4 of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James sit down with Joe Caudill, senior quarterback at Lexington High School and Michigan State commit. Caudill opens up about living his dream of receiving a Big Ten offer and choosing to play for the Spartans, where he will transition to tight end. He shares what it means to join the storied program, his love for both offense and defense, and the lessons he learned growing up with two older brothers who played football at Mansfield Senior. Looking back on his leadership role this season, Caudill reflects on how the Lex team has grown after last year’s 0-3 start and playoff run. He talks about weeks 1 and 2 this year, including a win over Ontario and a tough loss to Shelby, and how the team plans to regroup and build on their strengths moving forward. He also talks about the tough decision to graduate early, discusses his NFL dreams and explains how he’s embracing the final moments of high school. We close out the episode with rapid-fire questions about his favorite NFL player, his best high school memory and more. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Caudill, Lex top Ontario for first time since 2021 Column: North central Ohio filled with star football players, great teams in 2025

In Episode 3 of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James talk with Shelby senior quarterback Brayden DeVito, who’s set to continue his career at the Air Force Academy. DeVito reflects on his journey from stepping onto the field as a freshman in Shelby’s last game at historic Skiles Field to becoming a four-year starter and leader for the Whippets. He shares memories of being mentored early on, the iconic hook-and-ladder play that still defines Shelby football, and how former Whippet QB Brennan Armstrong has been a constant source of support. The conversation dives into DeVito’s decision to commit to Air Force after considering—and initially dismissing—all of the service academies. He explains why the program’s brotherhood, culture, and rejection of NIL drew him in, and what it means to hear, “Come be America’s quarterback.” Beyond football, he talks about the pride of being an All-Ohioan in three sports, leading Shelby’s basketball team to its first Final Four, and how those big-game moments prepared him for what comes next. From carrying the weight of leadership now to his future service obligations, DeVito opens up about the responsibility he embraces on and off the field—before finishing with some rapid-fire favorites and how he hopes to be remembered. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Wild blue yonder: Shelby’s DeVito commits to U.S. Air Force Academy Preseason Poll: Shelby picked to defend MOAC title ‘Prove ’em right:’ Shelby recharged after playoff heartbreak last season

In Episode 2 of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James sit down with Ashland senior quarterback Nathan Bernhard, who recently committed to Appalachian State. Bernhard shares why the Mountaineers were the right fit, how the chance to play early factored into his decision and what it was like navigating the new NIL world as a high school recruit. He also breaks down the culture at App State, from its passionate fan base to a coaching staff with NFL experience and why he believes it’s the perfect place to develop his game. Looking back on his career at Ashland, Bernhard reflects on his journey from battling injuries as a freshman two-way player to leading the Arrows to a historic playoff win over DeSales in 2024. He talks about the impact of head coach Scott Valentine, the freedom that comes with running the Ashland offense and the lessons of growing up in a competitive sports family. Off the gridiron, he shares his love for basketball, reveals who the best football player is on the court and sets expectations for what this senior season could mean for both him and his teammates. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Ashland QB Bernhard commits to Division I Appalachian State Q-A with Ashland QB & Appalachian State commitment Nathan Bernhard 2025 Ashland Arrows football preview

In the debut episode of Inside the Lines, Richland Source sports reporter Curt Conrad and co-host Effie James sit down with Lexington senior standout Brayden Fogle, fresh off his commitment to play football at the University of Georgia. Fogle opens up about why he chose the Bulldogs, when he realized he could compete at the highest level and what his expectations are for his final season at Lex. He also talks about the changes this year’s Minutemen squad has made since last year’s slow start, plus reveals who the biggest trash talkers are in the locker room. The conversation goes deeper than the game, as Fogle reflects on how a broken wrist during last year’s playoffs pushed him to mature in the offseason. He shares the lessons he’s learned about himself, the people in his corner who have shaped his journey and what makes this year’s team different from seasons past. It’s an inside look at one of the area’s top athletes as he heads into a pivotal year — both on and off the field. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more: Minuteman to Bulldog: Lexington's Fogle commits to play at Georgia