It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Liberty Center Depot Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Liberty Center, OH is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Great home care experience all around! Between the nursing, therapy, and caregivers I couldn't ask”
“I switched to Always Best Care from another visiting nurse association and I’m so glad”
“The representatives are always professional! You can tell they love what they do!”
“I love working for this company . I've been working for about a year and”
“I am very pleased to recommend Always Best Care Cleveland South. The staff of ABC”
“I am very pleased to recommend Always Best Care Cleveland South. The staff of ABC”
“I retired my full time job two years ago but still wanted to work part”
“My husband passed away on 4/11/17. His life was extended greatly because of the”
“Mr. McCurdy our family thanks you for the wonderful care you provided to our parents.”
“Hello Keith, Want to thank you for sending us the help we needed. Stephanie &”
“Great home care experience all around! Between the nursing, therapy, and caregivers I couldn't ask for a better company! Keep up the great work!!”
“I switched to Always Best Care from another visiting nurse association and I’m so glad I did. The staff was great and made every effort to help my mom recover from her stroke. They always gave us 1 or 2 days notice on appointments and were always on time. If we had to reschedule, they were understanding. Most importantly, they helped quite a lot! I highly recommend them over VNA. Thanks for helping our family.”
“The representatives are always professional! You can tell they love what they do!”
“I love working for this company . I've been working for about a year and a half . I highly recommend this company to caregivers as well as people in need of good quality service and standards . 5 stars is a true rating and it's an honor to be a part of the team.”
“I am very pleased to recommend Always Best Care Cleveland South. The staff of ABC are hardworking, genuine and wonderful individuals that truly have a passion for caring for others. I cannot say better things about their management as they are quick to respond, deliver excellent customer services and genuinely care about giving excellent service. They are very understanding of delicate situations and handle issues with sensitivity. I wouldn’t trust the care of my loved ones with anyone else. Excellent organization!”
“I am very pleased to recommend Always Best Care Cleveland South. The staff of ABC are hardworking, genuine and wonderful individuals that truly have a passion for caring for others. I cannot say better things about their management as they are quick to respond, deliver excellent customer services and genuinely care about giving excellent service. They are very understanding of delicate situations and handle issues with sensitivity. I wouldn’t trust the care of my loved ones with anyone else. Excellent organization!”
“I retired my full time job two years ago but still wanted to work part time only in a different field. I have always enjoyed helping people and I was lucky enough to find Always Best Care and have been working for them for two years. Keith and his entire staff are very personable, are easy to contact and/or get a return call in a timely fashion and will work with you when scheduling your work hours. I have been blessed to work with quite a few elderly people and have enjoyed every minute. They are sweet, kind, gentle and so appreciative for everything you do for them. I love everyday working to help those in need of help. Debi Mick”
“My husband passed away on 4/11/17. His life was extended greatly because of the care you supplied, Keith through the VA. The caregivers gave him exercises as well as help with showering, dressing, and the most important, good company. His alzheimer's limited his talking but they always made him laugh. God bless you all.”
“Mr. McCurdy our family thanks you for the wonderful care you provided to our parents. Your caregivers were so very good and compassionate to Kenneth and Esther. They went above and beyond our expectations and provided a level of care we cannot express enough. We will highly recommend you to anyone in need of your services. Once again thank you.”
“Hello Keith, Want to thank you for sending us the help we needed. Stephanie & Desiree were wonderful- put us at ease and were so caring. Excellent. The help you all gave comforted us and got us through the worst day of our lives. Bless you all for the work you do- and it is BEST CARE- EXCELLENT COMPANY.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Liberty Township Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Son of a Butcher or visit Fort Meigs Historic Site, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Liberty Center, OH, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Liberty Center, OH understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Liberty Center, OH 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Third-ranked Liberty Center (15-1), which finished as Division V state runner-up for the second straight year, placed three players on the Ohio Prep Sports Media Association’s D-V All-Ohio first team and another on the third team in the honors released Tuesday by the Ohio High School Athletic Association.Fifth-ranked Oak Harbor (12-1), which lost 24-21 to Liberty Center in a D-V regional semifinal, placed four player on the first team and another on the second team.Honored on the first team from LC’s Tigers were sen...
Third-ranked Liberty Center (15-1), which finished as Division V state runner-up for the second straight year, placed three players on the Ohio Prep Sports Media Association’s D-V All-Ohio first team and another on the third team in the honors released Tuesday by the Ohio High School Athletic Association.
Fifth-ranked Oak Harbor (12-1), which lost 24-21 to Liberty Center in a D-V regional semifinal, placed four player on the first team and another on the second team.
Honored on the first team from LC’s Tigers were senior running back Waylon Rentz, who was also the team's top tackler at linebacker, senior defensive lineman Zander Zeiter, and senior defensive back Cam Kahle. Teammate Brady Giesige was chosen to the third team as an offensive lineman.
Under coach Casey Mohler, Liberty Center won its third straight Northwest Ohio Athletic League championship and will carry a 35-game regular-season winning streak into the 2025 season. The Tigers have posted a 55-6 overall record since 2021.
Selected to the first team from Oak Harbor’s Rockets were senior quarterback Michael Lalonde, senior running back Carson Ridener, junior offensive lineman Isaac Schulte, and Jacob Ridener, who was named a first team defensive lineman for the third straight season.
Joining them was junior teammate Fulton Krupp, who was selected to the second team at place-kicker.
The Rockets of coach Mike May have also won three straight league titles — 2022 in the Sandusky Bay Conference’s Bay Division and the past two years in the Northern Buckeye Conference. Oak Harbor is riding a 28-game regular-season winning streak and is 34-4 overall since 2022.
NBC runner-up Eastwood (11-2) placed two players on the D-V second team — junior quarterback Drew Luidhardt and senior offensive lineman Ethan Recker.
Repeat Blanchard Valley Conference champion Liberty-Benton (10-2) had two players named to the D-V second team — junior running back Zach Elchert and senior offensive lineman Will Granger — and two others picked to the third team — junior receiver Seth Elchert and junior linebacker Austin Collert.
Also earning Division V honors was Genoa sophomore receiver Jaxon Magnone, who was selected to the second team.
In Division IV, the only player from a Toledo-area league to receive first, second, or third-team honors was Napoleon senior Trey Rubinstein, who was named to the first team at defensive back.
Napoleon junior running back George Eggers earned honorable mention recognition in D-IV, as did Wauseon senior receiver Wyatt Smith.
In Division V, the honorable mention list included Liberty Center's Garrison Kruse (sophomore running back), Ian Rosebrook (senior kicker), Steven Brogan (senior linebacker), and Grady Miller (senior defensive back); Liberty-Benton’s Garrett Nealis (senior place-kicker) and C.J. Barbara (junior defensive lineman); Genoa’s Dom Lindenberger (senior linebacker) and Cam Agler (senior punter); Oak Habor’s Tyler Thompson (senior receiver); Eastwood’s Andre Lewis (senior receiver), and Port Clinton’s Briar Rohrer (senior defensive back).
First Published December 10, 2024, 11:53 a.m.
Join the Conversation
We value your comments and civil discourse. Click here to review our Commenting Guidelines.
CANTON — Here were updates for Saturday’s Division V football state championship game between Liberty Center and Ironton. This story was updated throughout the game.FOURTH QUARTERScore: 28-17, Ironton? The Ironton defense stifled Liberty Center’s drive in the early portion of the quarter. The Fighting Tigers used a 46-yard pass by quarterback Braden Schreck to enter Liberty Center territory, and Ironton punched in a 4-yard touchdown two plays later.? Liberty Cent...
CANTON — Here were updates for Saturday’s Division V football state championship game between Liberty Center and Ironton. This story was updated throughout the game.
FOURTH QUARTER
Score: 28-17, Ironton
? The Ironton defense stifled Liberty Center’s drive in the early portion of the quarter. The Fighting Tigers used a 46-yard pass by quarterback Braden Schreck to enter Liberty Center territory, and Ironton punched in a 4-yard touchdown two plays later.
? Liberty Center answered on the following drive with quarterback Kaden Kreinbrink’s 10-yard TD pass to Garrison Kruse. Kreinbrink connected with Blake Garber for a 33-yard play on the snap before. LC’s Waylon Rentz ran in a 2-point conversion.
? The teams exchanged fumbles just 30 seconds apart, leaving Ironton with a chance to run out the clock. Instead, Fighting Tigers’ Shaun Terry took a 67-yard sprint to the left side for a touchdown.
Stats: Liberty Center ended up with close yard totals in passing (145) and rushing (142). Kruse had the team-lead in yards with 131 total (88 rushing and 43 receiving).
THIRD QUARTER
Score: 14-9, Ironton
? A punt for Liberty Center and a turnover on downs for Ironton are how the drives in this quarter finished. Liberty Center took over on their own 23-yard line and advanced to the Ironton 43 before the frame ended.
Stats: LC’s Tigers started to make strides in the passing game. Quarterback Grady Miller threw for 58 yards within the 12 minutes.
SECOND QUARTER
Score: 14-9, Ironton
? Liberty Center was forced to punt with the second play of the quarter, and Ironton sliced another 4½ minutes off the clock to score. Schreck found Terry for the tandem’s second touchdown. This time it was a 46-yard pass play down the middle.
? After a near score from Liberty Center’s Kruse - his 34-yard run to the right side ended at the 1-yard line - running back Waylon Rentz punched in the score. A missed point after attempt left it an eight point difference.
? The Tigers - from LC - were given the ball with 1:06 remaining before half. Ironton had three consecutive penalties and punted. Once Liberty Center gained 47 yards on six plays, kicker Max Walker nailed a 39-yard field goal to tighten the score.
Stats: Ironton relied on passing in a stark difference to Liberty Center. The Fighting Tigers had 119 yards through the air, and Liberty Center had 14. The gains that LC’s Tigers had were the 130 yards on the ground, with Kruse accounting for 80.
FIRST QUARTER
Score: 7-0, Ironton
? The *Fighting* Tigers used nearly eight minutes on the opening drive to take the lead. Terry took a short pass from Schreck and ran in a 35-yard touchdown.
Stats: Schreck accounted for 53 passing yards and 17 rushing yards. For Liberty Center’s first drive, Rentz had four carries for 12 yards before the end of the frame.
PREGAME
? Students, teachers, and the entire village of Liberty Center gave a send-off to the Tigers on Friday.
SEND OFF TIME! Thank you to the band, cheerleaders, and entire K-12 student body for sending the football team off to state in the best way! See you in Canton! #GoTigers pic.twitter.com/yIB5FWLqAH
— Liberty Center Athletics (@LibertyCenterAD) December 6, 2024
? Liberty Center had been dominant throughout the season on both sides of the ball. The undefeated, small-school team used a week of preparation for 14-1 Ironton.
Liberty Center is prepping for a tough test against Ironton and their high-octane offense in Canton, looking for a State Title. ????@LibertyCenterAD pic.twitter.com/PrMBM2Dsbi
— BCSN (@BCSNsports) December 6, 2024
First Published December 7, 2024, 11:42 a.m.
Join the Conversation
We value your comments and civil discourse. Click here to review our Commenting Guidelines.
The Tigers return to Canton for the second straight season and will play Ironton at 3 p.m. on Saturday aiming to bring home their first state title since 1997.LIBERTY CENTER, Ohio — Inside the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton on Saturday, the battle of Tigers will determine the OHSAA Division V State Championship. ...
The Tigers return to Canton for the second straight season and will play Ironton at 3 p.m. on Saturday aiming to bring home their first state title since 1997.
LIBERTY CENTER, Ohio — Inside the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton on Saturday, the battle of Tigers will determine the OHSAA Division V State Championship. Liberty Center, making an appearance for the second year in a row, is set to take on Ironton at 3 p.m.
"We know what to expect. We know how Saturday is going to look, how Friday is going to look and it helps a ton," said senior Zander Zeiter. "Hats off to those seniors for getting us there to have us prepared for this year."
Last season, the program reached the big stage for the first time since 1998. However, the quest for a gold trophy fell short after losing to Perry 21-14. Motivated by that defeat, these Tigers are eager for a return.
"This year we're approaching it like a 'business trip,'" said senior Grady Miller. "We know we have to work hard to get it done there and we just want to win."
?? Football Fun in Liberty Center ??Tigers embracing a cold and windy practice tonight with some passionate tackling...so much so this bag tasted a little asphalt toward the end hahaFinal week of the season, why stop?! #RiseAboveTheRest@LibertyCenterAD | @LCtigerfootball pic.twitter.com/WaGcEg2G8b
— H. Tyler Seggerman (@TylerSeggerman) December 5, 2024
Success has been no issue for Liberty Center, which is ranked third in Division V this fall as it carries another perfect 15-0 record into the final week of the season. LC has shut out its opponents in seven of those games while averaging more than 40 points per game on offense.
"The biggest thing is how they stick together, nobody tries to do it themselves," said head coach Casey Mohler. "It's a total team effort and that's what got us to this point and is what it'll take to win on Saturday."
The team standing in the way of Liberty Center's championship goal is No. 1-ranked Ironton. The Fighting Tigers, who also share the colors of black and orange, arrive at the state final for the fourth time in six seasons. However, they have not won a title since 1989.
They possess Division I level talent with a record of 14-1. Wide receiver Shaun Terry and cornerback Josh Johnson just signed to play at Missouri and Penn State, respectively, so, Mohler understands his team will have to win the line of scrimmage and limit big plays.
"That's why we do what we do, to test yourself and see, how good can we be? We prepare all season to beat the best team in Ohio and that's where we're at right now," Mohler said. "We're the last two standing, this is what we've been working for and that's the challenge. We're excited about it."
For the 18 seniors on his team, preparing for this weekend's showdown hits a little different knowing this will be the last time they compete together.
"It hurts like a bandaid being ripped off," Zeiter said. "For me, I wanted us to get here so we had that luxury of knowing when our last practice and game is type feeling."
Playing for the state championship is not a solo mission, either. Liberty Center's community plans to showcase its support in a big way like they've done all year long.
"Our fans are always there two to three hours before the game, lining up in the freezing cold during the playoffs," Miller said. "So, when we see them it means a lot and we try our best to show appreciation toward them."
Although LC has played at neutral sites for the past three weeks, the atmosphere felt a lot like Rex Lingruen Stadium.
"We're super appreciative of that and blessed," Mohler said. "It definitely helps knowing you got support and you're playing for something bigger than yourself."
"Rise above the Rest" has been the motto embraced by the team throughout this journey. With one game left to decide how it ends, that sentiment proves more powerful than ever.
"We really want to win it for the community, for the little kids in the school," Zeiter said. "We want to win it for Liberty Center, not just Liberty Center football."
The football team is getting ready! Are you? We need our Tiger Faithful to show up loud and proud in Canton to support...
Posted by Liberty Center Athletics on Wednesday, December 4, 2024
It's abundantly clear that Liberty Center and Ironton are the top two Division V football teams in Ohio.With equally potent offenses and incredibly stingy defenses, the powerhouses are set to collide in a state title game on Saturday.Both elite programs have strong playoff traditions, share the same nickname, and wield serious weapons in all three phases.No. 3 ranked Liberty Center (15-0) meets No. 1 ranked Ironton (14-1) in the D-V championship game at 3 p.m. Saturday at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton....
It's abundantly clear that Liberty Center and Ironton are the top two Division V football teams in Ohio.
With equally potent offenses and incredibly stingy defenses, the powerhouses are set to collide in a state title game on Saturday.
Both elite programs have strong playoff traditions, share the same nickname, and wield serious weapons in all three phases.
No. 3 ranked Liberty Center (15-0) meets No. 1 ranked Ironton (14-1) in the D-V championship game at 3 p.m. Saturday at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.
The LC Tigers are making their second-straight appearance in the state championship game, while the Ironton Fighting Tigers have reached the state title game in three of the past five seasons.
“It's extremely difficult to get to this stage, and we've had to work extremely hard to get here,” Liberty Center coach Casey Mohler said. “We're playing the best football we've played all year, and hopefully we can continue that for one more week.”
The LC offense has scored 632 points this season (42.1 per game) and the defense has yielded just 83 total points (5.5 per contest) with seven shutouts.
Ironton has scored 734 points (48.9 per game) and given up 166 (11.1 per game) with five shutouts.
“Offensively we have been able to strike fast and create explosive plays,” Ironton coach Trevon Pendleton said. “Defensively we have done a great job of winning third downs and getting our defense off the field. Our kids are flying around at a high level.”
Liberty Center forced a running clock in 10 of 15 games, while Ironton's forced running clocks in 13 games.
“We've had a lot of good starts,” Mohler said. “We've played a lot of games where we ended up with the running clocks, and we were able to get some younger guys some pretty valuable experience. That's been very beneficial to build some depth.”
Liberty Center defeated No. 1 ranked (tied with Ironton) Canfield South Range 48-14 in a state semifinal last Friday. Ironton defeated No. 12 ranked West Liberty-Salem 63-21 in its state semi.
LC won a third straight conference championship in the always-tough Northwest Ohio Athletic League with a 7-0 record, while Ironton plays an independent schedule. Ironton's only loss came to Clarkson North, a school from Mississauga, Ont. (28-27 on Sept. 27).
Ironton has two major Division I college commits. Wide receiver Shaun Terry will play at Missouri, while defensive back Josh Johnson has committed to Penn State.
The Ironton Tigers are making their 12th all-time state championship game appearance with two state titles (1979 and 1989). Ironton finished as state runner-up in 2019, 2020, and 2022 under seventh-year coach Pendleton. Six current players participated in the 2022 title game.
“Having guys who have experienced a state championship game before is invaluable,” Pendleton said. “Our leaders have been there. This is a very mature team that understands the task at hand. They understand what is going and what we are trying to do. They play with great effort on every snap. Our kids are excited for the challenge.”
LC lost eight starters on offense and seven on defense from last year's team that lost to Perry 21-14 in the state title game.
“Hopefully we won't be in awe of the facility and the atmosphere,” Mohler said. “We've been there, and seen it. For us, this is a business trip.”
Mohler said the returning players have risen to the challenge and erased doubts.
“Last year's group of seniors led that team almost to the top of the mountain and set a standard that this group wants to live up to. I think it has been a factor in how hard these guys have worked and how focused they have become,” he said. “It's a close brotherhood. They know last year's seniors were really good and deserved all of the accolades they got. But this year's group did not want to fall short of the standard that has been set. When people say you don't have this or that, it's motivating.”
The seniors will be playing in the 61st game of their careers. And they've won 55 of them.
“They've had six seasons of football in four years. They are leaving a tremendous legacy that is going to be the new standard for classes below them,” Mohler said. “These guys are not selfish, they care more about their team than they do about themselves. I don't think you could have a better legacy than that.”
The run-heavy LC Tigers have rushed for 4,591 yards (306.1 per game) with 66 touchdowns.
“It's no secret we're going to try to run the ball. The biggest key for us offensively has been our ability to control the line of scrimmage,” Mohler said. “We've done a good job of this, which has allowed us to distribute the ball to three different backs and attack defenses at different spots. We've also done a good job of taking care of the ball and not having a lot of turnovers.”
Waylon Rentz leads the way with 1,784 yards and 29 TDs, followed by Thomas Mohler (903, 8 TDs), Garrison Kruse (843, 15 TDs), Grady Miller (269, 6), and Tyler Rohrs (259).
LC QB Grady Miller has thrown for 676 yards and nine TDs. His top weapons are Garrison Kruse (355 receiving yards with four TDs), Blake Garber (146), Cam Kahle (111), and Noah Hammontree (106).
“They are really good at what they do,” Pendleton said. “No one we've played duplicates what they do. They can just chunk it ball down the field.”
Rentz, who broke his leg in the regional final last year, leads the defense with 99 tackles with nine for loss. Zander Zeiter has 85 tackles with eight for loss, while Kruse has 76 with six for loss and Garber has 51 with two for loss. The defense has 55 tackles for loss.
“It has taken everyone, freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, everyone,” Zeiter said. “We've worked hard. The one goal we had as a senior class was to get back there and win it. That's our goal for next week.”
Kahle, a defensive back who had a pick-six and a punt return for a touchdown in the state semifinals, leads the team with eight interceptions.
“It means the world in this community that we're able to get back there,” Kahle said. “Everything we do is for the community and for [last season's seniors]. Last year, we kind of let them down, and our goal is to bring it back for them.”
Foes are averaging just 174.9 yards on offense against LC — 83.5 rushing and 91.4 passing. Mohler said the defensive line has stopped the rushing game and put pressure on quarterbacks.
“We have experience back on all three levels that have done a nice job of working together and playing as a unit,” he said. “They've meshed really well playing together, understanding their roles.”
LC is able to rotate players up front, giving it a distinct advantage as a smaller school.
“We need to limit their explosive plays, which will be easier said than done,” Mohler said.
Pendleton called LC a very good football team.
“They come off the ball, run hard, and they don't beat themselves,” he said. “Our keys to victory is to generate explosive plays on offense, take care of the ball, and finish drives. Our keys to victory on defense is to win third downs and play with great discipline.”
Ironton quarterback Braden Schreck has thrown for 3,021 yards and 36 TDs with eight interceptions. Schreck also has 71 rushes for 404 yards and 8 TDs.
“Braden is a special player because he is like a coach on the field,” Pendleton said. “He understands the offense and what we want to accomplish and gets everyone on the same page.”
His top targets are Terry (78 receptions for 1,487 yards and 22 TDs), Tyler Roach (30 for 519, 6 TDs), Kayden Edwards (23 for 441, 3 TDs) and Braydon Baker (28 for 340, 5 TDs).
“Shaun is a once-in-a-lifetime type talent to coach,” Pendleton said. “He is so explosive and elusive that you hold your breath every time he touches the ball.”
Zayne Williams paces the running attack with 76 carries for 833 yards and 18 TDs, while Tyler Carmon has added 471 yards and seven scores and Kayden Edwards has 386 yards and 5 TDs.
“We have not seen the sheer number of athletes that they have,” Mohler said. “We have to run to the ball and get multiple hats on the ball.”
Austin Bump leads the Ironton defense with 118 tackles, followed by Brycen Mullins (77), Nick Sites (72) and Jesse Copas (59). Mullins also has six interceptions, while Terry has three picks. Mason Wheeler has a team-high four sacks and Maddix Markel has three fumble recoveries.
“Defensively we have done a great job of winning third downs and getting our defense off the field,” Pendleton said.
Mohler said his team must execute its offense flawlessly.
“When they load up the box, we will have to be efficient in our play-action game to keep them honest and loosen them up a bit. Hopefully, we can keep the chains moving,” he said.
The LC Tigers won a state title in 1997 and finished runners-up in 1993, 1998, and 2023.
Mohler said the LC community brings extra energy and motivation.
“It shows how much the community cares about these kids,” Mohler said. “When you know you have people that care about you, you want to play for them and all of the support they give you. Our fans have been great about supporting us for a long time. This is just a big football community, and we are blessed to get to play and coach in it.”
First Published December 4, 2024, 6:45 a.m.
Join the Conversation
We value your comments and civil discourse. Click here to review our Commenting Guidelines.
PARMA, Ohio — Below are updates from Friday’s Liberty Center football state semifinal game. This story will be updated after each quarter.FOURTH QUARTER? Score: 48-14, Liberty Center.? What happened: The Tigers put the finishing touches on its win in Parma, Ohio, on their way to play for a state title. Blake Garber gets LC's fourth interception of the game late in regulation. The Tigers then make it 48-14 with 5:08 left in the game to force...
PARMA, Ohio — Below are updates from Friday’s Liberty Center football state semifinal game. This story will be updated after each quarter.
FOURTH QUARTER
? Score: 48-14, Liberty Center.
? What happened: The Tigers put the finishing touches on its win in Parma, Ohio, on their way to play for a state title.
Blake Garber gets LC's fourth interception of the game late in regulation. The Tigers then make it 48-14 with 5:08 left in the game to force a running clock on a 13-yard run by Thomas Mohler.@LCAthleticDept @toledosports
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
Liberty Center advances to the state title game for the second straight season with a convincing 48-14 win over No. 1 ranked and previously undefeated Canfield South Range. LC scores 34 points in the first half and forces five turnovers.@LCAthleticDept @toledosports
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
THIRD QUARTER
? Score: 41-14, Liberty Center.
? What happened: Just when the Raiders needed to start picking away at Liberty Center’s lead, it was the Tigers who did the picking.
LC's Jackson Bartels intercepts SR QB Tristan Toy early in the third quarter. Tigers looking to add to 34-14 lead.
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
The Tigers cash in after a eight play drive as Garrison Kruse scored his second TD of the night for a 41-14 lead with 3:13 left in the third quarter.@LCAthleticDept @toledosports https://t.co/LyxaBUndpX
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
The Tigers get their third pick of the game on Thomas Mohler's interception. LC up 41-14 and driving.
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
SECOND QUARTER
? Score: 34-14, Liberty Center.
? What happened: Liberty Center slammed home two scores to give itself a large cushion at the break.
All LC now. Zander Zeiter takes the ball away from an South Range running back and scampers 22 yards for a TD. Tigers now up 34-14 with 1:22 left in the first half.@LibertyCenterAD @toledosports
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
With 1:40 left in the first half, LC's Cam Kahle comes up with an interception. On the very next play, Waylon Rentz scores on a 40-yard TD run to give the Tigers a 28-14 lead.@LibertyCenterAD @toledosports
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
The Tigers defense let a long touchdown from the South Range running back tie the score early in the quarter, but it was the skill players on offense who swiped the lead back.
The Tigers put together a churning drive and cap it with a 12-yard TD run by Garrison Kruse to take a 21-14 lead over South Range. Key plays: a 19-yard run by Thomas Mohler, and a 21-yards pass from Miller to Jaxton Lawniczak.@LibertyCenterAD @toledosports
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
South Range ties the game at 14 on a 49-yard TD run by Dylan Smesko.@LibertyCenterAD @Blades
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
FIRST QUARTER
? Score: 14-7, Liberty Center.
? What happened: South Range kept the ball for longer on its third drive, and eventually punched it in for six.
South Range gets on the board with a 1-yard TD run from Aidan Dominguez. Liberty Center now up 14-7 with 1:54 left in the first quarter.@LibertyCenterAD @toledosports
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
Cam Kahle, a Blade special mention on defense, turned on the jets to propel Liberty Center to a 14-0 lead.
LC with another three and out. Tigers force a second punt. And kick returner Cam Kahle returns the punt 60 yards for a score. Goes down the near sideline to put the Tigers up 14-0 with 8:17 left in the first quarter.@LibertyCenterAD
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
Tigers pounced on both sides of the ball, and their first team All-Blade star Waylon Rentz finished a scoring drive.
What a start for the Tigers. Two plays later (including a 46 pass from Grady Miller to Blake Garber), LC takes a 7-0 lead. Waylon Rentz scores on a 6-yard TD run. 10:01 left in the first quarter.@toledosports @LibertyCenterAD https://t.co/QB153Axwvg
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 30, 2024
The game started at a chilly Byers Field. The two teams had met once before, with South Range nabbing a 35-0 victory over the Tigers in a 2022 state semifinal.
Cold, cold one in Parma (27 degrees and breezy) for a Division V state semifinal. Undefeated and No. 3 ranked Liberty Center (14-0) plays unbeaten No. 1 Canfield South Range (14-0).?@LibertyCenterAD? ?@toledosports? pic.twitter.com/YcLsFwAeMl
— Mark Monroe (@MonroeBlade) November 29, 2024
First Published November 29, 2024, 4:28 p.m.
Join the Conversation
We value your comments and civil discourse. Click here to review our Commenting Guidelines.
440-202-1706
