Pickerington Pride: Five Local Stars Shine in Ohio State’s National Title Run

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — As Ohio State prepares for the national championship game, the small town of Pickerington is bursting with pride. Five former Pickerington high school athletes — Jack Sawyer, Sonny Styles, Lorenzo Styles Jr., Ty Hamilton, and Max Lominaco — are key contributors to the Buckeyes’ historic season.

Jack Sawyer, a standout edge rusher, became a household name after his game-changing 83-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Cotton Bowl Classic on Jan. 10. The Pickerington North High School graduate’s performance has been a source of inspiration for his hometown. “His work ethic, leadership, and toughness is probably what separates him from the other guys,” said Nate Hillerich, Sawyer’s high school coach and current Pickerington North head football coach. “That’s what’s so great about Jack, the relationships he’s made. I think if you ask anyone at Ohio State or Pickerington North, and they all love him and know he’s a good guy.”

The Styles family also has deep roots in Pickerington football. Lorenzo Styles, a former Ohio State and NFL linebacker, has two sons on the team: Sonny Styles and Lorenzo Styles Jr., both graduates of Pickerington Central High School. “It gives me great pride and joy to see the fruits of their hard work pay off and get an opportunity to play in this type of game,” said Styles. He described Pickerington players as “blue-collar hard work individuals” who embody grit and determination.

The community’s excitement is palpable, with local businesses like Roosters in Pickerington preparing for game-day celebrations. “There’s an extra special place in our hearts in Pickerington for these players because they’re from this hometown,” said Nicole Cox, vice president of marketing for Roosters.

As the Buckeyes gear up for the national title game, the town of Pickerington stands united in support of its hometown heroes. Their journey from local high school stars to national championship contenders is a testament to the town’s football legacy and the hard work of its athletes.