Willtrell Hartson returns to play at Ashland University

 

Willtrell Hartson celebrated during Ashland's Purple and Gold game. (Photo: HSLD/Hartson Instagram)

ASHLAND, Ohio—Former Massillon Tiger running back Willtrell Hartson has returned to Ohio to play for Ashland University.

Hartson made it official on signing day (Feb. 5), according to the Ashland University athletic website. He previously attended Ohio State as a preferred walk-on and then transferred to Southern Illinois, where he had some success.

At Southern Illinois, he played in eight games. He had 26 carries for 69 yards and one touchdown. He also caught the ball six times for 31 yards that season.

#differentpath pic.twitter.com/KsjXdjKxZu

— Willtrell Hartson (@x_trell4) April 14, 2025

While playing for Massillon, he broke the single-game rushing record with 324 yards. This surpassed current Massillon running backs coach Travis McGuire’s record of 302 yards respectively, versus Westerville South (2020).

Hartson has participated in Ashland’s spring practices and the Purple and Gold game to end the spring session.

**Data compiled from SIU Athletics website, MassillonTigers.com**