News & Updates

Big Walnut High School football team dominated Central High School with a commanding 42-21 victory Friday night. The Eagles showcased exceptional team play with contributions across offense, defense, and special teams. Key Highlights: - Quarterback Jake Thompson threw for 298 yards and 3 touchdowns - Running back Devon Williams rushed for 156 yards and 2 touchdowns - Defense intercepted 2 passes and forced 3 turnovers - Special teams coverage was exceptional throughout the game Coach Davis praised the team's execution and focus during the game. "Our players came out ready to play. This is the kind of effort we need to see every Friday night," the head coach said after the game. The victory improves Big Walnut's record to 3-1 as they prepare for their next matchup against Westerville South.

Junior quarterback Jake Thompson has emerged as a critical leader for the Big Walnut football team during the 2025-2026 season. Thompson's growth both as a player and as a leader has impressed coaches and teammates alike. "Jake has really matured this season," said offensive coordinator James Wilson. "He's making smart decisions with the football and is a great leader in the huddle and locker room." Thompson's Stats This Season: - 1,247 passing yards - 11 touchdowns - 4 interceptions - 68% completion percentage Off the field, Thompson is also an excellent student and community member. He maintains a 3.8 GPA and volunteers with youth football camps in the Big Walnut community. Looking ahead, Thompson is focused on leading the team to a successful playoff run. "I want to finish strong and bring a championship to Big Walnut," he said.

The Big Walnut Football Booster Club is launching its annual fundraising campaign aimed at raising funds for player scholarships and facility improvements. Campaign Goals: - Raise $50,000 for athletic scholarships - Fund improvements to stadium facilities - Support team travel expenses - Provide equipment and gear The booster club will host several fundraising events throughout the season including: - Pancake breakfast on October 15 - Raffle drawing during homecoming - Annual golf outing in November - Spirit wear sales "This community has always supported Big Walnut football," said Booster Club President Jennifer Smith. "With your help, we can continue providing opportunities for our young athletes." For more information on how to contribute or volunteer, visit the booster club page or contact the athletic department.

Senior offensive lineman Brandon Smith made his return to the field after a four-week recovery from a hamstring injury. The veteran player expressed excitement about contributing to the team's stretch run. "I'm just grateful to be back out there with my teammates," Smith said. "The recovery process was tough, but our training staff did an amazing job getting me ready." Smith is a four-year starter and brings valuable experience to the offensive line. His return provides stability to a unit that will be crucial for the team's playoff hopes. Coaches are taking a cautious approach to his return, managing his workload while ensuring he regains full fitness. "Brandon is a leader on this team," said head coach Mike Davis. "We're taking our time to make sure he's 100 percent." The Eagles will need their veteran players healthy and ready as they enter the crucial stretch of the season.

Big Walnut High School is gearing up for homecoming week with a full slate of activities and traditions. The week culminates with the football game against Westerville South on Friday night. Homecoming Events: - Monday: Spirit Day (Wear school colors) - Tuesday: Class Competition (Tug of war and relay races) - Wednesday: Powder Puff Flag Football - Thursday: Pep Rally and Dance - Friday: Homecoming Game vs Westerville South "Homecoming is one of my favorite times of year," said junior class president Alex Martinez. "It really brings the school community together." The football team is excited to play in front of a packed stadium. "Homecoming games have great energy," said quarterback Jake Thompson. "It's always special to play for our school and community." Gates open at 5:30 PM on Friday with the game starting at 7:00 PM. Tickets are available at the gate.

The Big Walnut Eagles enter the 2025-2026 football season with high expectations and a commitment to both winning and player development. Team Goals: - Win the conference championship - Make a deep playoff run - Develop young talent - Maintain academic excellence - Build strong community relationships Head coach Mike Davis outlined the team's direction for the upcoming season. "We have talented young players and experienced seniors. If we execute and stay healthy, we can accomplish great things," Davis said. Key Returning Players: - Junior QB Jake Thompson - Senior RB trio - Experienced offensive and defensive lines The team opens the season against Central High School on October 15 at Big Walnut Stadium. The Eagles have scheduled several challenging non-conference games to prepare for conference play. "Our schedule will prepare us for the postseason," said offensive coordinator James Wilson. "We're excited about the opportunity ahead." Support the team by attending games, volunteering with the booster club, or cheering in the stands. Go Eagles!

Junior defensive end Chris Anderson has emerged as one of the most dominant defenders in the conference, recording 8.5 sacks through the first half of the season. "Chris brings an incredible motor to practice and games," said Defensive Coordinator Robert Martinez. "He studies opponents and understands leverage. That combination of talent and intelligence is rare at the high school level." Anderson's impressive statistics include: - 8.5 sacks - 15 tackles for loss - 22 total tackles - Multiple forced fumbles Off the field, Anderson maintains a 3.5 GPA and is being recruited by several Division I programs. "It's incredible to have the opportunity to play college football," Anderson said. "But my focus right now is on winning a state championship with my teammates." The Eagles' defense has been anchored by Anderson's consistent play and leadership. His impact on the defensive line has been instrumental in Big Walnut's strong start to the season.

Big Walnut Football hosted its annual Alumni Night celebration last Friday, bringing back dozens of former players to support the current team. The event included: - Pre-game reception with alumni and current players - Special recognition of legendary coaches and players - Alumni competing in the halftime challenge - Tailgate celebration after the game "Events like this remind our current players that they're part of something special," said Head Coach Mike Davis. "These alumni set the standard for what it means to be an Eagle." The current team responded to the alumni presence with an inspiring performance, securing a decisive victory over their opponent. Many alumni shared stories of their playing days and encouraged the current team to pursue a state championship. "We came close a few times, but didn't quite get there," said former team captain Derek Johnson, class of 2010. "I'm confident these Eagles have what it takes to bring home a championship." The event raised nearly $10,000 for the athletic department's scholarship fund through donations and concession sales.

Coach Emily Richardson recently joined the Big Walnut Football coaching staff as the Strength & Conditioning Specialist, bringing cutting-edge training methods and certifications from elite sports performance programs. Coach Richardson holds certifications in: - Strength and Conditioning (CSCS) - Sports Nutrition - Advanced Recovery Techniques - Speed and Agility Training "My goal is to maximize player performance while minimizing injury risk," Richardson explained. "I work with each athlete to develop a personalized training program based on their position and goals." The strength program includes: - Position-specific weightlifting protocols - Injury prevention training - Nutritional guidance - Recovery and regeneration techniques - Off-season training development Players have already noticed the impact. "Coach Richardson's training has made us stronger and more resilient," said linebacker Tyler Rodriguez. "We feel more confident in our conditioning compared to previous years." Coach Richardson holds a Master's degree in Sports Science and brings three years of experience training collegiate athletes. She is excited about the potential of the Big Walnut program.