News Summary

The inaugural North Central Ohio Football Coaches Association spring combine at Shelby High School attracted 117 high school athletes eager to showcase their skills. Standout players like All-Ohio quarterback Nathan Bernhard impressed college coaches, with attendance from around 20 schools. The event fostered community support and aimed at nurturing local talent while providing a free platform for young athletes to shine. Organizers continue to seek donations for future combines as they plan for annual success in highlighting rising stars in high school football.

Sprinters and Stars Shine at Shelby’s First Football Combine

Shelby, Ohio – Excitement buzzed through the air as the first-ever North Central Ohio Football Coaches Association (NCOFCA) spring combine lit up Shelby High School! The event brought together a whopping 117 high school football athletes keen on showcasing their skills and catching the eye of college coaches.

An All-Ohio Star Menaces the Field

Among the standout talents was Nathan Bernhard, Ashland’s remarkable All-Ohio quarterback, who recently made headlines by verbally committing to Appalachian State. With dreams of playing at the collegiate level, Bernhard and other rising juniors and seniors took to the field to partake in a blend of traditional combine drills. They tackled the thrilling 40-yard dash, the intense pro-shuttle drill, and the challenging L drill, pushing their limits and racing against the clock.

Attention from Colleges Galore!

To the athletes’ delight, approximately 20 colleges sent their coaches and recruiters to scout the promising talent. This event created a fantastic opportunity for young players to showcase their skills in front of those who hold the keys to their football futures. Whether it was a heart-pounding sprint or a well-executed route, these athletes were more than ready to shine.

Position Groups Heat Things Up

After a series of fierce drills, players were split into position groups for thorough evaluation, allowing coaches to dig deeper into each player’s potential. Noteworthy was the pairing of Bernhard and Shelby’s own quarterback, Brayden DeVito, another Division I college recruit. Their connection on the field caught the eyes of many, as they threw routes to receivers and tight ends, demonstrating skill, precision, and teamwork.

A Community Effort

The entire community rallied around the event, with coaches from various area high schools pitching in to ensure everything went smoothly. The goal was not only to provide an opportunity for young athletes in the region but to also foster a sense of unity among the local schools. With many athletes facing financial constraints, the combine’s free-to-participate status was a major plus. This effort reflects the community’s commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering growth.

Looking Towards the Future

NCOFCA president and Shelby coach Rob Mahaney played a crucial role in bringing this event to life, aiming to replicate the competitive platforms seen in larger cities like Cleveland and Columbus. As the event wrapped up, hopes were high for it to become an annual staple. Plans are already in motion to refine the experience based on this year’s feedback, ensuring future iterations are even better.

Support and Donations Welcome!

As the dust settled on this exciting day of athletics, event organizers welcomed donations to continue supporting not only this combine but also future ventures by the NCOFCA. With community backing and the promise of more opportunities ahead, the sky is the limit for these determined athletes striving to make their mark on the world of football.

The first NCOFCA spring combine proved to be a resounding success, paving the way for rising stars in high school football right here in Shelby, Ohio. Athletes left the field energized, excited, and hopeful for what the future holds. Here’s to many more successful combines ahead!

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