Ashland’s Tyler Sauder Reflects on Memorable Senior Season and Bright Future as an Eagle

Ashland High School standout Tyler Sauder has been a key figure on both sides of the football this season — a dynamic wide receiver and a lockdown defensive back who helped lead the Arrows to an unforgettable 10-0 regular season. But as his high school career closes, Sauder’s accomplishments continue to stack up, including his selection to the prestigious North-South All-Star Game and his commitment to continue his football journey close to home.

“For me, being selected and playing in the North-South All-Star Game was a huge honor,” Sauder said. “It was a really cool experience and not something a lot of people get to be a part of. Being able to play in it with Coach V was something I’ll definitely remember.”

The North-South Game, one of the most celebrated showcases for Ohio high school seniors, brought together top-tier talent from across the state. For Sauder, it was more than just a game — it was a celebration of everything he had worked for, surrounded by new teammates and lifelong mentors. “I met some really cool people there, and it was just awesome to be part of something that big,” he added.

Sauder won’t be going far for his next chapter. The senior announced he will continue his football career at Ashland University in December — a decision rooted in both opportunity and a deep connection to his hometown.

“Being able to stay home next year and become an Eagle is a huge blessing,” he said. “They have a great program and a great coaching staff, and I’m super excited for the opportunity to continue my career there and continue to prove myself over the course of the next few years.”

Reflecting on his time in the Arrow program, Sauder spoke with emotion about what it meant to wear the orange and black. With a family legacy rooted in Ashland football — his father and coaches having long been part of the fabric of the program — the season felt especially personal.

“Being an Arrow through my high school career and accomplishing what we did means a lot to me,” he said. “Growing up, my dad coached there, as well as Coach V and a lot of the guys that are on the staff now. Ever since I was younger, I looked up to the older players and loved going to practices with my dad.”

“To be able to play under that coaching staff my senior year and play for my dad, as well as going 10-0, was an incredible experience. I think we had just about the best senior year I could ask for.”

Sauder’s success on the field mirrored the deep friendships forged off of it. Many of his teammates had been with him since elementary school, making the 2024 season feel like the culmination of a lifetime of work, grit, and loyalty. “To accomplish what we did with all the guys I’ve been friends with since we were little is something special I’ll never forget.”

He closed with heartfelt gratitude for those who have supported him along the way: “A huge thanks to Coach V, Coach Stack, and all the other coaches for the work they’ve put in over the years to help this team become what it is now. And to my dad, for everything he’s done for me — coaching-wise, with recruiting and visits, and everything else.”

With his name etched into Ashland football history and his next chapter about to begin at Ashland University, Tyler Sauder leaves a legacy of passion, performance, and pride — the kind that will inspire the next generation of young Arrows following in his footsteps.

Written by: Wesley Seyfang