Kenny Goodin’s vision behind the 12th Region Sports Network

Published 1:06 pm Wednesday, July 23, 2025

By Casey  Roberts

casey.roberts@bluegrassnewsmedia.com

What started as a grassroots effort to spotlight local athletes has grown into one of the most trusted and beloved voices in high school sports coverage across the 12th Region. And for founder Kenny Goodin, it’s always been about more than scores and stats.

“12th Region Sports kinda came together on its own,” Goodin said. “It was a few different things that came together under my guidance to become what it is now. My original plan has always been to put the kids first.”

Goodin, a Lincoln County native, knows what it means to fight for a platform. Born to teenage parents and raised in poverty, he grew up in Waynesburg during the 1990s—a time and place he still holds close to his heart.

“I love Lincoln. It will always be my home,” he said. “I’ve coached a lot of kids over the years and still do. A lot of good people here have supported me in my good moments and my bad moments.”

Founded on the principle of uplifting student-athletes, 12th Region Sports has become a staple in the region’s sports landscape, especially in communities often overlooked by mainstream media. The network covers 18 to 20 schools across 10 counties, often with just a few people behind the scenes—each of whom also works full-time jobs.

“It’s a miracle we’ve accomplished what we have,” Goodin said. “We try to give everyone some acknowledgment because they all work hard and deserve it. Everyone deserves their moment.”

The network has gained a large following on social media and built strong relationships with coaches, players, and schools. Goodin says it’s those relationships that set them apart.

“We’re different,” he said. “It’s not just about media. We’re family. We show up, we invest in the kids, and we genuinely care. They know that.”

While most feedback is positive—often including heartfelt thank-you messages and even stories of college opportunities that grew from the coverage—Goodin admits it’s not always easy.

“Sometimes people feel left out or ask why we didn’t cover something,” he said. “But that just comes with the territory. We’re doing the best we can with what we have.”

Despite the challenges, Goodin has no plans of slowing down. His vision remains clear: grow the network, keep the student-athletes at the center, and continue building something meaningful.

“We only compete against ourselves,” he said. “We’re going to keep being creative, listening to the people, and investing in the kids.”

And through it all, he hasn’t forgotten where he came from.

“I’m proud to be a Lincoln County kid that was a nobody and now represents this community,” he said. “Most of my family has been in jail or passed away. I wasn’t supposed to make it. When I started 12th Sports, people laughed at me. They’re not laughing anymore.”

Goodin also credits a dedicated team that helps bring the vision to life: Burnell “Doodle Bug” Newcomb, Chris Hazlett, Jimmy Clarkston, Zach Cooley, and Logan Young.

“I couldn’t do it without them,” he said. “They help get things done and keep the mission going.”

For Goodin, the mission remains simple—shine a light where it’s needed most and give every kid their moment.