The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has confirmed that the Ironton Fighting Tigers football team will not participate in the upcoming playoffs and will face probation until the end of the 2027-2028 season. This decision results from multiple violations of recruiting bylaws that occurred over the last seven years. Despite the sanctions, the team will retain its 2024 Division V state championship and previous wins.
Following the announcement on October 25, 2025, the Ironton Board of Education expressed disappointment, emphasizing that the penalties affect students not involved in any wrongdoing. The board stated, “This is a setback, but this has not erased the hard work and accomplishments of our students as a team this year. We will strive, as always, to uphold the values that define Ironton City Schools both on and off the field.”
The Fighting Tigers learned of their postseason ban just days before the announcement, despite ranking third in the state. On Friday, players, cheerleaders, and supporters protested outside the Ironton School District Board Office, voicing their discontent. There were rumors of a legal challenge at the nearby Lawrence County Courthouse, but no action was taken before the court closed for the day.
In its statement, OHSAA indicated that the violations included coordinated recruiting efforts, such as communication with parents and students regarding influencing athlete enrollment. The investigation revealed deliberate attempts to conceal these activities, indicating an awareness of wrongdoing. OHSAA stated, “The scope and coordination of these activities represents a serious and pervasive violation.”
The imposed sanctions include a postseason ban for this season, a suspension of some coaching staff members next year if they remain at an OHSAA member school, a $7,500 fine, and three years of probation. Additionally, during the last regular season game, an ineligible student-athlete participated, resulting in a forfeiture of that game.
As a result of these penalties, Ironton’s rating will drop to the bottom of Region 19 in Division V. The school district has agreed to modify local enrollment and transfer policies and will attend an educational seminar conducted by OHSAA staff. If further violations of the recruiting bylaws occur during the probationary period, the team will face automatic postseason ineligibility in future tournaments.
The board acknowledged the frustration among the community, particularly regarding the impact on seniors. They stated, “We understand that many of you are upset… we accept the negotiated sanctions presented to us at this point in time.” As the Ironton Fighting Tigers prepare for the challenges ahead, the focus will remain on taking corrective measures to ensure compliance and uphold the integrity of their football program.
