(5-22-25) Two notable changes in Northeast Ohio athletic conferences took place this week.

Lake Erie League administrators voted Monday to disband the league, citing a decline in membership. The league, which was going to be down to five members this fall (2025) — Bedford, Garfield Heights, Maple Heights, Shaw and Warrensville Heights — issued a joint statement.

“The Lake Erie League (LEL) convened today and voted to dissolve the conference due to a steady decline in membership that made continued operation unsustainable. This decision was not made lightly, as the LEL has a long and proud history of promoting athletic excellence, sportsmanship, and regional camaraderie among its member schools. We honor the legacy of the LEL and remain committed to supporting our student-athletes through strong competition, new partnerships, and continued collaboration across districts.”

No word from the schools of their future conference plans.

The North Coast Conference announced the addition of Lutheran West.

Lutheran West will remain in the Chagrin Valley Conference (CVC) for the next two years — except for boys basketball — to fulfill their commitments within that league. The CVC will still have 29 members after the change/

Lutheran West athletic director Josh Malave

“The move to the North Coast Conference is an exciting opportunity to partner with schools that have strong traditions of academic and athletic success. We are excited to join a community that is mission-aligned in the advancement of Christ-centered athletic programs.”