Alumnus defends rivalry status between Canton McKinley and Massillon high schools

A letter to the editor published on September 2, 2026, challenges the assertion that the Canton McKinley and Massillon football rivalry has lost its intensity. The author, a Canton McKinley graduate, argues that the two programs maintain distinct competitive philosophies. Canton McKinley competes at the Division I level, while Massillon remains in Division II. The correspondent states that the annual matchup carries more significance for Massillon than for Canton McKinley. Additionally, the writer highlights the history of the Canton McKinley program, noting its record for producing the most NFL players among high schools in Ohio. The letter emphasizes the pride associated with the school’s traditions and refutes claims that the rivalry is no longer relevant.

• 11:46 AMYahoo Sports — Here's another opinion on McKinley-Massillon football rivalry | Letter