H.S. Football | A closer look at Berne Union, Fisher Catholic and Millersport

As the 2026 high school football season is set to begin, three prominent teams in Lancaster – Berne Union, Fisher Catholic, and Millersport – are gearing up for their regular-season schedules. Following the OHSAA's decision to reduce the playoffs field from 16 to 12 teams per region, qualifying for postseason play will be a more challenging task.

Berne Union, coached by Tony Hurps in his eighth season, is looking to bring speed and playmaking from their wide receivers. The team features key returners such as Ashton O'Rourke, Carson Kiger, James Hocking, Dillan Cornell, Colton Moore, Aiden Long, Dylan Kistler, Bryson Stoneburner, Haiden Coy, and Cam Hammond. Coach Hurps believes the team has a strong defense, with their linebackers making significant strides.

Fisher Catholic, led by Coach Luke Thimmes, returned from the 2025 season with an 8-3 record. The team boasts both senior leadership and young talent, with key returners like Sam Tencza, James Wilkinson, Nick Harris, Ethan O’Rielley, Blake Woher, Damian Neal, Anderson Crook, Deaglan Neighbor, Zane Anderson, and Jude Clum. Thimmes commented that the team has a great combination of experienced players and fresh talent, which could make them dangerous on the field.

Millersport, coached by Jack Treinish in his sixth season, is set to face new challenges after losing some key players from last season. The team hopes to be more physical in the trenches, with a sophomore class of 14 and a growing leadership presence. Key returnees include Cash Inman, Landon Lyons, Landon Ailes, Jackson Rawlins, Zach Kelly, Macon Mynes, Dillon Donaldson, Hayden Keller, Easton King, Caiden King, Keagan King, Gabe Young, Mason Coleman, Evan Raver, Cooper Phillips, Owen Schuster, and Lincoln Terry. The team aims to pick up some JV games for the second year in a row.