Two-time defending Division VII state runner-up Hillsdale moving to Division VI

JEROMESVILLE — If Hillsdale is to reach the state championship game for a third straight year, it will be in a new division.

The Ohio High School Athletic Association released its divisional breakdown for the 2026 football season and the Falcons will compete in Division VI this fall.

Hillsdale played in the Division VII state final in 2024 and 2025. The Falcons fell to Marion Local in 2024 and St. Henry last December.

Hillsdale will compete in Region 21 of Division VI. The region includes reigning Division VI state champ Kirtland.

Mapleton will drop from Division VI to Division VII. The Mounties will compete in Region 25.

Crestview will remain in Division VI, but will move into Region 22. The Cougars were in Region 23 last year.

Ashland and Loudonville will stay put. The Arrows will remain in Region 7 of Division II, while Loudonville is still in Region 27 of Division VII.

The summer period, when teams are allowed up to 13 practices, runs from May 15 to July 31. Practice begins Aug. 1 and the season kicks off Aug. 21.