(From Liberty-Benton Local Schools)
Liberty-Benton Local Schools is excited to announce that it will join the Cardinal Division of the Northern Lakes League (NLL) starting in the 2026-2027 school year. This move follows a thorough exploration of options to ensure the district’s athletic programs continue to thrive in a competitive, balanced, and geographically reasonable conference.
Liberty-Benton has been a proud member of the Blanchard Valley Conference but has sought a new home that better aligns with its needs. Finding a suitable conference has been a significant challenge due to limited openings in leagues that include schools of similar size, competition, and reasonable travel distances.
The Northern Lakes League, which is expanding to include Liberty-Benton, features two divisions based on enrollment: The larger Buckeye Division, and the smaller Cardinal Division. Currently the divisions are as follows:
Buckeye: Anthony Wayne, Findlay, Northview, Perrysburg, Whitmer (exception in football which also includes Springfield)
Cardinal: Bowling Green, Napoleon, Clay, Fremont Ross, Southview, and Springfield for all sports except football.
Liberty-Benton has enjoyed competing against many NLL schools in non-conference play in multiple sports over the past few years. As an NLL member, Liberty-Benton will compete in the smaller Cardinal Division.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Liberty-Benton,” said Superintendent Bruce Otley. “Liberty-Benton has been competing against many NLL schools as non-conference opponents over the past several years. Joining the Northern Lakes League will provide excellent competition for our student-athletes while maintaining manageable travel times. We are grateful for the invitation to join the NLL and look forward to building strong relationships within this new league.”
Liberty-Benton fondly reflects on the history and traditions shared within the member schools of the Blanchard Valley Conference. While this transition marks a new chapter, the district remains committed to fostering exceptional opportunities for all students—both on and off the field.
