Dec. 7 declared ‘Indian Valley Braves Football Day’ in Midvale

MIDVALE – Area officials and the Tuscarawas County community continue to heap praise on the history-making state champion Indian Valley High School football team.

The Braves in December became the first county school to win a football state championship in the OHSAA tournament era that started in 1972.

Midvale Village Council is the most recent government body to recognize the Braves’ historic feat by unanimously approving a proclamation Monday night at Midvale Elementary School.

“Their achievements were a testament to their hard work and dedication, to teamwork resulting in the Indian Valley Braves football team winning the state of Ohio Division IV state championship on Dec. 7, 2024,” it reads. “Whereas we hereby proclaim December 7^th Indian Valley Braves Football Day in the village of Midvale.”

Indian Valley Football Coach Matt Lancaster thanked the village for the recognition, meal and awards. Midvale Speedway also presented players, coaches and cheerleaders with gifts.

“We are very blessed and honored to bring this first ever state championship in T-County history to Braves Nation,” he said. “Thank you very much.”

Indian Valley went undefeated in 16 games, won the IVC and beat Sandusky Perkins 37-36 in the Division IV state title game on Dec. 7.

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