Harrison Central ends football season with win and standout player performances

The Harrison Central varsity football team ended its 2025 season on a high note with a road win over Buckeye Local, giving the Huskies a 4–6 record and allowing them to retain the V.A.L.E.S. Trophy for another year.

The victory capped a season of steady improvement for the Huskies and individual success for three standout players — Kayne Dunkle, Bardy Hyre and Noah Thaxton — who each earned spots on the statewide high school football statistics lists in receiving, passing and kicking.

Dunkle continued his dominant season as one of Ohio’s top receivers, finishing with 57 receptions for 806 yards and five touchdowns. His total marks a 199-yard improvement from his previous 607 yards, while his touchdown count rose from three to five. He held the top spot in receiving for most of the season and is expected to remain among the leaders through the playoffs.

Hyre climbed to No. 3 in passing, up from No. 4, with 1,683 passing yards, a 407-yard improvement. He threw 17 touchdowns, five more than before, and completed 147 of 203 attempts for a completion percentage of 72%. His 168.3 yards per game also improved from his earlier average of 159.5.

Thaxton made one of the biggest leaps in the state rankings, moving from 16th to 8th in kicking, a 100% improvement in position. He connected on 26 point-after-touchdown attempts and one field goal, giving him 29 total points for the season.

The combination of team perseverance and individual excellence reflected a season of growth for the Huskies, whose players and coaches demonstrated continued improvement and dedication throughout their 10-game campaign.