Orrville’s athletic history is second to none in Wayne County, and really would struggle to be matched by the majority of the over 700 high schools that field organized OHSAA sports in Ohio. That history is illustrious, and hit new heights 50 years ago, when Orrville had their 1st team sports state finalist, and it came in the form of the 1976 baseball squad. Tonight, 13 players, coaches, and scorekeepers from that team were honored in a pregame ceremony before taking in a dominant victory by the 2026 version of the Red Riders over Massillon Perry. The Red Riders wasted little time tonight getting things going, and in honor of the “7” in “76” and our special guests for the evening, started off the top of the 1st with 7 runs against the Panthers who had little answer for an Orrville lineup that has made a habit out of starting hot this season. 6 different Red Rider hitters brought home runs today, highlighted by a great game from Case McDaniel. In the 1st, Case plated a run with a sacrifice fly, before adding another RBI to his tally in the 4th with a hard hit double into the gap. 17 Red Riders found their way onto the field today, and all contributed to the dominant victory whether that be offensively, defensively, or on the base paths. They all had life made easy for them by the solid start by Hunter Adkins, who pitched 3 scoreless innings before being taking out of a game that was no longer in doubt. Notable as well was continued defensive excellence by many Red Riders, with “wow” plays coming from Kellen Wayt’s backhand stop in the top of the 4th, Alex Smith with a great stretch and pick at 1st to complete a double play in the top of the 3rd, and your routine 5-2-3 double play to end the game by Cam Kraft, Jacob Ott, and Alex Smith. At the risk of sounding redundant for those of you who’ve read these recaps consistently, it was a true team effort in today’s victory, which is a very fun phrase to write regularly. Orrville will participate in the Carmichael Classic tomorrow with a game against defending DV State Champion the Waynedale Golden Bears. The game time has been moved to 2:30, and the contest will take place at Wooster High School. A final and special thanks goes out to all of the 1976 squad who could join us this evening, those who couldn’t make it, and the 3 members of the team who were looking down from above today.