WHEELING, WV – Arena football is returning to Wheeling, West Virginia, as the Wheeling Miners play their inaugural season in 2024. It's been a big year for the team, as the Miners are a perfect 9-0 and gearing up to take on the Peach State Cats in the American Arena League 2 (AAL2) Championship Game. During this time, several Wheeling University football players and coaches have played big roles in the team's success and are looking to bring a championship to Wheeling again.
In their first game against Steel City, the Miners proved themselves a powerhouse in the AAL2 with a 58-0 win. From there, the Miners' offense continued to shine, scoring 30 or more points in eight of nine games this season, while their defense held opponents in check, earning their lone shutout win against Steel City and holding opponents to 30 or fewer points in eight of nine games. The Miners faced off against the Jersey Bearcats for the AAL2 North Division title, winning 28-17 to advance to the AAL2 Championship Game. The Miners now lead the AAL2 in goal differential, outscoring their opponents 444-116. They look to continue their success on both defense and offense as they look to win the championship.
The leader of the Miners defense is Wheeling football's defensive coordinator. Mott Gaymonhas led the Cardinals defense for the past five seasons. His defense has held opponents to just 116 points on the season, allowing an average of 12.9 points per game in the nine games the team has played. Entering the AAL2 Championship Game, Gaymon's defensive unit had not allowed a touchdown in 10 consecutive quarters and will look to continue that success. Another member of the Cardinals coaching staff who is on the field for the Miners is Andre London, co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach at Wheeling. London is part of a Miners offensive line that has allowed .444 points per game and averaged 49.3 points per game.
The Cardinals have four alumni active on the field, including former Cardinals players. Aaron Finch, Zee Lewis, Xavier Thomasand Javon Johnson All are getting playing time. Lewis finished his career with the Cardinals last season as the team's starting right guard, and has continued to play on the offensive line while also being a part of the Miners' defense. Xavier Thomas He is currently inactive, but like Lewis, he played on both the offensive and defensive line for the Miners earlier in the season. Javon Johnson and Aaron Finch The two have been key members of the Miners' defense, helping limit opponents to an average of 12.9 points per game.
The 2024 AAL2 Championship Game will be held at WesBanco Arena in Wheeling, West Virginia on Saturday, July 6. For tickets and more information, visit the Miners' website at gowvminers.com.
