LIBERTY CENTER, Ohio — Family, food and football are what make Thanksgiving special. The Liberty Center High School football program encompasses all of those ingredients with a strong culture, hunger to succeed and of course stellar team.
Senior fullback and linebacker Waylon Rentz has played a pivotal factor in making sure that standard continues during the 2024 season. A two-way star, he remains driven to make an impact.
"I never would've imagined I'd be where I am now," Rentz said. "Now that I look back on it, it's expected because of all the hard work and little things nobody sees that I've done leads me to where I am now."
The 5'11" 205-pound athlete has propelled himself into a leader, knowing this Fall marks his final chapter as a Tiger.
"I can't say that we're really surprised by it just because of the work he's put in, not just this past year but for the last four years," head coach Casey Mohler said. "He's been as committed as anybody to this program."
An effort that was put on display last week during Liberty Center's Regional Championship game against Edison. Rentz accounted for all three of the team's 1st half touchdowns, which helped LC cruise to a 34-6 win and punch a 3rd straight ticket to State.
"It feels really good, but I feel bad a little bit taking all the credit away from the lineman," Rentz said. "Always got to give props to them and they do a great job every game."
According to his head coach, Rentz has carried the ball more than 20 times in each of the last two games while also playing nearly every snap on defense. A testament to the young man's toughness, given he plays two of the most physical positions on the team. Unlike 2023, that special trait will get to shine on a State Semifinal stage.
"It's really awesome. Last year, I was out because of my leg injury so it's great and exactly where I want to be," Rentz said. "Having another shot to go play in Canton."
During a holiday week dedicated to reflection, Rentz doesn't hesitate to share gratitude toward those he shares the field with.
"We're just trying to raise the standard for next year's class and do our best that we possibly can to raise the standard and cause next year's team to be even better," Rentz said.
Liberty Center (14-0) will travel to Byers Field in Parma on Friday night to battle fellow unbeaten South Range (14-0) in an OHSAA Division V State Semifinal. The two programs met in the same round two years ago with the Tigers falling short 35-0.
