The Avon Eagles will meet the Medina Highland Hornets in a highly anticipated regional final on November 21, 2024, at Brunswick Auto Mart Stadium. This matchup marks the latest chapter in a competitive rivalry, with Avon seeking to defend its title as the Division II State Champion and secure its eighth trip to the semifinals in nine years.
Avon coach Mike Elder expressed the significance of this game, noting, “Our team is disciplined enough to not overlook this game. They recognize that this is the most important game of our season right now.” The Eagles are coming off a strong performance against Wadsworth, winning 42-21, and they carry a record of 11-1.
Since 2011, Avon and Highland have faced off in eight postseason contests, with Avon winning seven of those encounters. Their last two meetings occurred in the Division II Region 6 final, with Avon victorious in 2023 (28-14) and Highland narrowing the gap in a 28-20 loss the following year.
Elder reflected on past experiences, stating, “Last year, (Matt) Maxey felt like our team was looking past Highland… I had to tell our team last year that if you beat Highland you are going to win the state championship.” He emphasized the strength of Highland, calling them the best team his Eagles faced in 2024, which included formidable opponents such as Akron Hoban and Cincinnati Anderson.
Highland enters this game with an impressive record of 12-0, bolstered by a dominant defense that allows an average of just 4.5 points per game. They recently defeated North Ridgeville 48-0, demonstrating their potential. In comparison, Avon also secured a decisive victory against North Ridgeville, finishing at 55-7.
Coach Elder acknowledged Highland’s strengths, stating, “They will mix up coverages on you, show blitzes and drop out of them. They are schematically well-coached.” Highland’s defense is bolstered by standout players, including first-team selections Evan Foust and Jameson Gordon. The Hornets’ defensive lineman Dan Miller earned second-team honors in the Northeast Inland District.
Offensively, Highland relies on running back Casey Myser, who has set multiple records in Medina County, including 540 career points and 79 rushing touchdowns. This season, he has rushed for 1,163 yards and won the Division II Northeast Inland District Offensive Player of the Year award.
In addition to Myser, Highland features dual-threat quarterback Graddy Gibb, who has thrown for 1,647 yards with 22 touchdowns and only two interceptions this season. Gibb demonstrated his abilities in the regional semifinal against North Ridgeville, completing 8 of 9 passes for 218 yards and four touchdowns, while also contributing with 69 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns.
This regional final is not only a pivotal moment for both teams but also a career milestone for Coach Elder. With 213 career wins, he is one victory away from tying the Lorain County record held by Dave Dlugosz of Avon Lake, who achieved 214 wins.
The upcoming contest promises to be a thrilling matchup, with both teams eager to advance to the Division II State semifinal on November 28, 2024. As Avon looks to extend its legacy, Highland aims to secure its place among the elite teams in the region.
Date and time for the game are set for November 21 at 19:00 local time. Both teams will bring their best as they vie for a chance at the prestigious title.
