Wooster standout Charles Follis named to 2026 National High School Football Hall of Fame

Trailblazing halfback, recognized as the first African American pro football player, joins hall’s fourth induction class

Published December 11, 2025 - 6:00 a.m. Modified January 28, 2026 - 1:43 p.m.

Annonse

Wayne County's first high school football team was the 1899 Wooster High squad, led by Charles Follis, center. The Generals went undefeated and unscored on that season with Follis as their captain.

The National High School Football Hall of Fame announced its 2026 induction class during a ceremony in Brook Park.

Founder and CEO LaMont “ShowBoat” Robinson unveiled the hall’s fourth induction class, celebrating what he called another super class of former legendary players, coaches and contributors who shaped the legacy of high school football across America.

Included in the class is former Wooster High School halfback Charles Follis, who was the first African American professional football player.

The National High School Football Hall of Fame’s induction ceremony will be held Saturday, July 11 in Brook Park. Admission to the ceremony is free.

Annonse

Bill Epeards shares hunting wisdom at Ohio show

The seasoned hunter and former police officer engages with attendees at the Northeast Ohio Sportsman Show, emphasizing the value of outdoor experiences.

Northeast Ohio Sportsman Show a huge success

Mt. Hope Event Center hosts successful event with new vendors and seminars, drawing large crowds.

Local Roots, The Food Sphere raise funds for new Wooster home

Local food cooperative and entrepreneurial center launch capital campaign to expand into former grocery building

Zoning map changes take center stage at Wooster City Council meetings

Council reviews proposed amendments aimed at housing options, open space and farmland preservation

Find us on Facebook

Wayne County Bargain Hunter Wooster Weekly News

THE LATEST

Local

35 seconds or less: Shot clock a welcomed part of Classic in the Country action

Players, coaches and officials praise faster pace during CitC trial run

Orthopedic services expand in Wooster

Wooster Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center joins Bloomington Medical Services beginning Feb. 1

Wayne County administrator Herron retires after nearly 32 years

Patrick Herron reflects on fiscal stewardship, major projects and behind-the-scenes public service

Kevin O’Leary of ABC’s 'Shark Tank' to headline Jarrett Supply Chain Summit

Entrepreneur and investor to deliver keynote at Aug. 6 conference in Cleveland

CHIP program brings $1 million for Wayne County home repairs

Federal funding will support housing repairs, renovations and down-payment assistance across the county

Wayne County commissioners recognize Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Proclamation highlights warning signs, local impact and the importance of awareness in preventing exploitation

Wayne County Health Department to host Jan. 13 pop-up food pantry

Drive-thru pantry in Wooster will provide free food to eligible families in partnership with the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.

Sports

Celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day with College of Wooster women’s basketball

College of Wooster celebrates National Girls and Women in Sports Day with events on Feb. 4.

YMCA serves up table tennis in Wooster

New program brings competitive and recreational play to the Wayne County YMCA

Wooster gymnastics eyes postseason as pressure-packed season builds

Photo gallery: Triway battles Norwayne in girls basketball action

Scenes from a nonleague matchup featuring Triway and Norwayne, highlighted by physical play and strong senior performances

Waynedale celebrates baseball legacy during championship ring night

Former Golden Bears reunite as program honors 2025 state title team and looks ahead to field renovations

Wooster sweeps OCC swim titles behind confidence and depth

Generals’ boys and girls capitalize on momentum to claim conference championships at home

Wooster athletes earn NESCAC sportsmanship honors

Henry Perkins of Tufts and Ashton Dunlap of Bowdoin were recognized for leadership and character as members of the New England Small College Athletic Conference Fall All-Sportsmanship Team.

Community Spotlight