BELLEFONTAINE — Two Logan County football programs will be in the spotlight Thursday as Bellefontaine and Riverside compete in the Gail Clark Clash, a 7-on-7 football showcase at Bellefontaine High School.

The event, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. on July 17, brings together six programs from across northwest and west-central Ohio, including Bellefontaine, Riverside, Lima Senior, Findlay, Ashland, and Wapakoneta. Admission is free for fans.

For local football followers, the tournament provides an early glimpse at both Bellefontaine and Riverside as preparations continue for the 2025 season. The Chieftains will enjoy home-field surroundings while looking to measure themselves against several strong opponents. Riverside, meanwhile, gets an opportunity to test its skill players against a challenging field loaded with tradition and athleticism.

The competition, however, will be anything but easy.

Leading the list of contenders is Lima Senior, which enters the event with considerable momentum after recently capturing a highly competitive 7-on-7 tournament at Indiana University last month. The Spartans have built a reputation for explosive athletes and a dynamic passing attack, making them one of the teams to watch throughout pool play.

Bellefontaine will be thrown into the fire immediately, opening the day against Findlay at 10 a.m. before facing Lima Senior at 11 a.m., Ashland at noon, Wapakoneta at 1 p.m., and closing pool play against Riverside at 2:30 p.m.

Riverside's schedule is equally demanding. The Pirates begin against Lima Senior at 10 a.m., followed by Wapakoneta at 11:30 a.m., Findlay at 12:30 p.m., Ashland at 1 p.m., and conclude with the all-Logan County matchup against Bellefontaine.

While 7-on-7 competition does not feature linemen and focuses primarily on passing, route-running, coverage, and quarterback play, these summer events have become an important benchmark for teams hoping to build chemistry before official preseason practices begin.

The Gail Clark Clash also carries local significance as it honors the legacy of Gail Clark, a longtime figure connected to Bellefontaine football. Clark passed away July 3^rd of this year at the age of 75.

With two Logan County squads participating and a talented Lima Senior team looking to continue its summer success, Thursday's event promises a full day of quality football action and an opportunity for fans to get an early look at what could be in store this fall.

Gail Clark Clash Details

When: Thursday, July 17, 10 a.m.
Where: Bellefontaine High School, 555 E. Lake Ave., Bellefontaine
Teams: Bellefontaine, Riverside, Lima Senior, Findlay, Ashland, Wapakoneta
Admission: Free
Concessions: Available throughout the day.