UPDATE: C.J. Newell defied a dislocated toe to lead the Glenville Tarblooders to a stunning 45-7 victory against Shelby in the OHSAA Division IV football state championship held in Canton, Ohio, on December 5, 2025. This decisive win marks another state title for Glenville, showcasing the resilience and determination of its players.
Despite missing most of practice leading up to the game, Newell refused to sit out. His commitment paid off as he rushed for 81 yards and scored 2 touchdowns, proving that nothing could keep him off the field for one last game alongside fellow senior Aaron Scales. “That’s just what I had to do for the team,” Newell stated after the victory. His performance was crucial as the Tarblooders cemented their status as champions.
The injury occurred during a tense semi-final match against Indian Valley, where Newell’s toughness shone through even after extensive medical treatment. He emphasized the importance of his offensive line in executing plays effectively, saying, “They did good on the run game and everybody executed well.”
Glenville’s defense, known for its record-setting performance this season, faced off against one of the state’s most potent offenses, led by Mr. Football finalist Brayden DeVito. However, the Whippets struggled to find their rhythm, finishing the game with only 27 yards of offense—a new state record for futility, attributed to Newell, Scales, and their defensive teammates.
Newell, who has committed to play at Bowling Green University, has primarily played safety this season but expressed a desire to contribute more offensively. “I wish I could have played more on both sides of the ball,” he said, reflecting on his dynamic role within the team.
The bond between Newell and Scales, forged since elementary school, has been pivotal for Glenville. Scales, known for his relentless work ethic, contributed significantly to the team’s defensive efforts, nearly intercepting a pass in the fourth quarter. After the game, Newell praised Scales, stating, “Aaron works his (butt) off every day. That is a hard worker. Hard work beats talent all of the time.”
With this victory, Glenville finishes the season with a remarkable record of 12-3 and secures its place in history, winning three state championships in four years. Their journey began in 2022, and Newell, Scales, and teammate Cincere Johnson have left an indelible mark on the program.
Coach Ted Ginn Sr. commended the players’ intelligence and leadership, stating, “They’re good students and students of the game. They know how to line up and how to line everyone else up.” This depth of understanding and preparation laid the groundwork for their success in the championship game.
As the dust settles on this thrilling victory, Glenville fans can celebrate the legacy of a team that has consistently risen to the occasion against formidable opponents, including two-time state champion Avon and Archbishop Hoban. The Tarblooders have proven themselves as one of the top teams in Ohio high school football, and their future looks bright with Newell and Scales moving on to collegiate careers.
With the championship secured, the focus now shifts to the next generation of players at Glenville. As they look to continue this winning tradition, the impact of Newell, Scales, and Johnson will resonate for years to come. The Tarblooders have shown that through determination and teamwork, they can overcome any obstacle, inspiring future athletes in their pursuit of excellence.
