In the heart of Ohio, Pickerington has become a football powerhouse, producing six active NFL players from its modest 9.74 square-mile area. This transformation began with Ryan Manalac, who broke ground as the first Pickerington native to play in an NFL regular-season game. Since then, the town's commitment to excellence has fostered a competitive environment that extends from youth leagues to professional ranks. The community’s emphasis on hard work and teamwork has created a blueprint for success, with more young athletes aspiring to follow in the footsteps of their idols.

The Rise of Pickerington's Football Legacy

Located just outside Columbus, Pickerington was once a rural town with a population of 5,000 when a new high school was built in 1991. Over the years, this quaint suburb has evolved into a football-frenzied hotspot, home to two powerhouse high schools—Pickerington Central and Pickerington North. The journey began in earnest when Ryan Manalac became the first local player to make it to the NFL in 2009. His achievement set the stage for future generations, including Taco Charlton, Roger Lewis Jr., Brian Peters, Jake Butt, Pat Elflein, and Godwin Igwebuike, all of whom have gone on to play at the highest level of professional football.

The foundation for this success was laid by the town’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young athletes. In 2003, when Pickerington split into two high schools, the district doubled the number of junior high, freshman, and junior varsity teams. This move ensured that more kids had a chance to participate and compete, fostering a culture of excellence. The Pickerington Youth Athletic Association (PYAA) played a crucial role in nurturing talent from an early age, creating a pipeline of skilled players ready to excel at the high school level and beyond.

The rivalry between Central and North has only intensified this competitive spirit. Games between the two schools are akin to small college matchups, with intense atmospheres and packed stadiums. Players like Demeatric Crenshaw and Jack Sawyer have emerged as standout talents, embodying the town’s relentless pursuit of greatness. Crenshaw’s record-breaking performance in the state championship and Sawyer’s early recruitment offers from top-tier universities highlight the depth of talent coming out of Pickerington.

From the weight rooms to the playing fields, the community’s focus on discipline and hard work is evident. Coaches like Jay Sharrett and Nate Hillerich emphasize the importance of preparation and accountability, ensuring that players are not only athletically prepared but also academically sound. This holistic approach has produced well-rounded athletes who are ready to contribute at the next level, whether in college or the NFL.

A Community Built on Perseverance and Unity

The story of Pickerington’s rise to prominence is not just about football; it’s about a community that values perseverance and unity. The bonds formed on the PYAA fields have endured, with former teammates continuing to support each other long after their playing days. Players like Butt, Charlton, and Elflein have carried these lessons into their professional careers, always striving to be their best while maintaining the humility instilled in them by their families and coaches.

For the younger generation, the legacy left by these pioneers serves as both inspiration and motivation. Jack Sawyer, despite his young age, embodies the mindset that has defined Pickerington’s success. He understands that reaching the NFL will require more than just talent—it demands dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he prepares for the challenges ahead, Sawyer knows he can count on the support of a community that has always believed in its children’s potential.

Ultimately, Pickerington’s football phenomenon is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. The town’s success story reminds us that with the right combination of hard work, dedication, and mutual respect, even the smallest towns can produce world-class athletes. As more young players continue to emerge from Pickerington, the future looks bright for this football factory, where dreams are not just dreamed—they are realized.