MORRAL, OH—History has been rewritten in Morral, as the Ridgedale High School Rockets football team has officially clinched a berth in the 2025 OHSAA State Playoffs, ending a formidable 22-year drought since their last appearance in 2003. The monumental achievement is a testament to the dedication of the players and the transformative leadership of Head Coach Asch Tilley and his coaching staff.
The Rockets (6-4 overall) secured the No. 12 seed in the Division VII, Region 26 tournament following a successful regular season campaign. Their playoff journey begins on the road this Friday, October 31, at 7 p.m., as they travel to take on the No. 5 seeded Gibsonburg Golden Bears (7-3).
Coach Tilley’s Triumphant Return
Leading the charge for this historic turnaround is Head Coach Asch Tilley, an alumnus of Ridgedale himself. Coach Tilley has instilled a new level of belief and discipline in the program. His staff, including key assistants, has worked tirelessly to develop the talent on the roster, preparing the Rockets to compete at the highest level of small-school football.
The players have fully bought into the new culture, demonstrating grit and determination that defined their 6-4 season. “This is an incredible moment for our program, our school, and our entire community,” said Coach Tilley. “These young men have worked non-stop to earn this, and it’s a privilege to see their effort rewarded by bringing playoff football back to Ridgedale.”
Key Players Drive Success
The Rockets’ success this season has been a collective effort, with several players delivering standout performances. The team’s tenacity was recognized by the Northwest Central Conference (NWCC), where senior linebacker and lineman Evan Ricketts earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. Ricketts also made the All-NWCC First Team along with kicker Derrick Mahaffey.
Other key contributors included Second Team All-NWCC selections such as running back Michael Deas, wing/end Ayden Salyer, defensive end Britton Pottkotter, and defensive backs JJ Slaughterbeck and Isaac Lust. The efforts of players across all classes, including sophomore quarterback Colt Rawlins and freshman Lincoln Kramer (Honorable Mention All-NWCC), signal a strong foundation for the future of Rocket football.
Ending the Drought
Ridgedale last appeared in the OHSAA playoffs in 2003, marking this 2025 team’s achievement as a true milestone. While the challenge against Gibsonburg is significant, the Rockets enter the postseason with momentum and the fierce pride of their community backing them. The entire Morral community is rallying behind the Rockets, eager to witness what promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the school’s athletic history.
The journey continues, and for the first time in over two decades, the Ridgedale Rockets are ready for their shot at a state title.
You can hear tonight’s matchup between the Rockets and the Bears on our affiliate website, MyRadiBox.com, and click GameTime Radio.