The NE8 was formed in 2018 by the Superintendents of the Girard, Hubbard, Jefferson, Lakeview, Niles, Poland, Struthers and South Range school systems in order to provide for a competitive, appropriately sized and healthy athletic conference for their student athletes.

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Mr. Rob Conklin was selected by the Superintendents, Principals and Athletic Directors of the member schools to server as the conference's first commissioner. Conklin served as Athletic Director at Austintown Fitch High School from 2007-2016. Before coming to Fitch, he was the Athletic Director at Ashtabula Lakeside High School. Conklin was also an offensive and defensive coordinator at Cardinal Mooney High School and the assistant and head football coach at Struthers High School. He’s also coached track, cross country and gymnastics and brings a wealth of athletic experience to the league.