New Lex wrestling shatters MVL scoring record

Panthers claim Small School Division title, Sheridan takes Big School crown

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The New Lexington wrestling team shattered its own Muskingum Valley League Tournament scoring record, totaling 294 points to claim the Small School Division title. The Panthers had 13 wrestlers place fourth or better, including four champions. Rival Sheridan won the Big School Division crown.

Why it matters

New Lexington's dominant performance at the MVL Tournament comes after a disappointing showing at the recent Division II state duals. The bounce-back effort shows the Panthers have regrouped and are poised for a strong postseason run.

The details

New Lex had four individual champions - Brody McNabb (103 pounds), Danny Waite (138), Tyson Spicer (138) and Harrison Ratliff (144) - and 13 wrestlers place fourth or better. Sheridan crowned three champions in Cash Owen (120), Maddox Laymon (132) and Thad Nikodym (165). John Glenn's Dominic Bates (175) was named the Big School Most Outstanding Wrestler after recording his 150th career win.

  • The MVL Tournament was held on February 21, 2026.

The players

New Lexington

The host school and winner of the Small School Division title at the MVL Tournament, shattering its own scoring record with 294 points.

Sheridan

The winner of the Big School Division title at the MVL Tournament.

Dominic Bates

A senior wrestler from John Glenn who was named the Big School Most Outstanding Wrestler after recording his 150th career win.

David Ratliff

The head coach of the New Lexington wrestling team, who was pleased with his team's bounce-back effort after a disappointing performance at the state duals.

Cash Owen

A three-time MVL champion wrestler from Sheridan.

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What they’re saying

“Last week I said we left some points out there, but today I thought they turned the corner as far as expectations and wrestling up to their ability.”

— David Ratliff, New Lexington head coach (coshoctontribune.com)

“I just want to leave a mark and do the best that I can.”

— Dominic Bates (coshoctontribune.com)

The takeaway

New Lexington's dominant performance at the MVL Tournament, just a week after a disappointing showing at the state duals, demonstrates the team's resilience and ability to bounce back. The Panthers' four individual champions and 13 wrestlers placing in the top four show they are poised for a strong postseason run.