Stark County Athletes of the Year Honored

Abby LaPole of Jackson captured the girls vote with 62.64 percent, while Jack Andes of Hoover took the boys portion at 84.74 percent. The overall tally shows 23,318 votes cast in the reader‑driven poll. Both athletes were recognized as the top performers for the 2025‑26 OHSAA season.

Abby LaPole – Jackson’s Girls Champion

LaPole is a four‑time All‑Ohio selection in wheelchair basketball, the second athlete in Ohio history to achieve that honor. She also holds three straight state titles in girls seated shot put and set the county record with a throw of 23‑11. Her consistent play on the court and in the throw helped lift Jackson to prominence throughout the season. Readers recognized her versatility across multiple disciplines, making her the clear choice among female athletes.

Jack Andes – Hoover’s Dual‑Sport Star

Andes was named the Repository’s Stark County player of the year in both football and baseball, leading the Vikings to the state playoffs in football and the state final four in baseball. He captured 84.74 percent of the boys vote, a margin that underscored his impact in two very different arenas. His ability to excel on the diamond and the gridiron earned him the male athlete honor.

Season‑End Voting Puts Spotlight on Excellence

With the OHSAA season closed for 2025‑26, fans cast 23,318 votes to decide the top teams, coaches and athletes across the county. The results not only celebrate individual achievement but also reflect the broader narrative of the year’s competition. Both LaPole and Andes set benchmarks for upcoming seasons, illustrating the depth of talent in Stark County high school sports.

Looking ahead, the recognition highlights the importance of year‑round dedication and community support for high school athletics. Fans can expect continued excitement as the next cycle of competition begins, building on the legacies established by this year’s standout performers.