Wheeling University Football: A Legacy in the Making
Wheeling University, located in Wheeling, West Virginia, has a rich history intertwined with the pursuit of athletic excellence. As members of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II, the Wheeling Cardinals have established themselves as a competitive force, particularly within the Mountain East Conference (MEC). This article delves into the evolution of Wheeling University's football program, tracing its origins, key milestones, and aspirations for the future.
A Foundation of Faith and Education
The idea of establishing a college in Wheeling was revived in October 1953 by Bishop John Swint, who sought the expertise of the Maryland Province to conduct a feasibility study. Bishop Swint offered the grounds and physical plant for the college, contingent upon the Maryland Jesuits' agreement to operate and staff it. The Jesuits approved Bishop Swint’s plans for a college in July 1954. In the early part of the year, Fr. Lewis, the first Jesuit to take up residence in Wheeling, arrived to confer with Bishop Swint and others working to establish the college. The groundbreaking ceremony for the college was held on November 24, 1954.
Wheeling College officially opened its doors on September 26, 1955, with a staff of 12 Jesuits and four lay professors. The first class comprised 90 students, offered 25 courses across 12 majors. The college was formally dedicated on October 23, 1955, with Archbishop Swint and Fr. William F. Maloney, S.J., of the Provincial of Maryland Province, among the speakers. The Cardinal was selected as the symbol of the college by the student body on December 6, 1955, and crimson and gold were chosen as the school colors.
From Wheeling College to Wheeling University
Wheeling College was accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools on March 29, 1961. The college was accredited in the minimum possible time, and students were given April 2 as a holiday to celebrate. In May 1996, the Board of Directors voted to change the college name to “Wheeling Jesuit University.” Wheeling Jesuit College officially became “Wheeling Jesuit University” on July 18, 1996. In December 1997, the Board of Directors approved a… Wheeling CardinalsUniversity.
The Wheeling Cardinals: A Tradition of Athleticism
The Wheeling Cardinals represent Wheeling University in intercollegiate sports, competing in the MEC since the 2013-14 academic year. Prior to that, they were members of the WVIAC from 1957 to 2013. The university fields 19 varsity teams, showcasing its commitment to a diverse athletic program.
Read also: Wheeling's The Learning Experience Reviewed
Gridiron Glory: The Birth of Wheeling University Football
In 2017, the athletic department announced the addition of football, with an exhibition schedule planned for 2018. Zac Bruney, the offensive coordinator at Ohio Dominican University, was appointed as the program's first head coach on July 7, 2017. Bruney returned home to tackle biggest challenge. The team began play during the 2019 season.
The Cardinals achieved their first victory on November 16, 2019, with a 27-20 triumph over Concord University. This historic win marked a significant milestone for the program, demonstrating the team's potential and resilience.
The Inaugural Season and Beyond
The establishment of the football program at Wheeling University reflects the institution's commitment to providing a comprehensive athletic experience for its students. The decision to add football was driven by a desire to enhance the university's profile, attract a wider range of students, and foster a stronger sense of community.
Under the leadership of Coach Bruney, the Wheeling Cardinals football team has steadily grown and developed. The program emphasizes not only athletic skill but also academic excellence and personal growth. The coaching staff is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field.
Bishop Schmitt Field: Home of the Cardinals
The Wheeling Cardinals football team plays its home games at Bishop Schmitt Field. This facility provides a dedicated venue for the team to showcase its talents and connect with fans.
Read also: Celebrating Wheeling Graduates
Conference Affiliations and Rivalries
As a member of the Mountain East Conference (MEC), the Wheeling Cardinals football team competes against a number of other institutions in the region. These include:
- University Of Charleston (WV)
- West Liberty
- West Virginia State
- Glenville State
- Frostburg State
- Concord
- Fairmont State
- West Virginia Wesleyan
These rivalries add excitement and intensity to the college football experience, fostering a spirit of competition and camaraderie among the athletes and fans.
Other Sports at Wheeling University
Wheeling University offers a wide array of sports. The lady Cardinals captured the school's very first NCAA Division II National Championship on Dec. 12, 2015. In January 2013, athletic director Danny Sancomb announced that Wheeling would be adding wrestling at the school's 20th intercollegiate sport. Wheeling native and Cornell graduate, Sean Doyle was hired to build the program to compete in the fall of 2013. All-American wrestler JD Ramsey was hired as a Graduate Assistant, while Matt Littleton and BJ Hedger were hired to serve as volunteer assistants in the first year. The first recruiting class of 29, includes wrestlers from 7 different states and the team will compete as an NCAA Division II program immediately. The university has designed a new wrestling facility, which was ready for use in the fall of 2013.
Rugby, formerly offered as a club sport from 1967 to 1994, was restarted after an 18-year hiatus in December 2011. The university restarted its rugby program in part because the increasing popularity of rugby in Jesuit high schools meant that offering college rugby would be one way to attract more students. The rugby team is a full varsity men's sport and provides scholarships for athletes. The university hired Eric Jerpe as the head coach of the program. The program elevated to the Division 1-A Rugby and joined Rugby East starting in the 2014 season.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Wheeling University Football
The Wheeling University football program is poised for continued growth and success. With a dedicated coaching staff, talented student-athletes, and a supportive university community, the Cardinals are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the MEC and beyond.
Read also: About Wheeling University: A Full Look
As the program continues to develop, it will undoubtedly face challenges and obstacles. However, the commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, will serve as a guiding principle. By fostering a culture of hard work, teamwork, and integrity, the Wheeling University football program will continue to inspire and unite the university community.
The future of Wheeling University football is bright, and the journey is just beginning. As the Cardinals continue to strive for greatness, they will undoubtedly leave an enduring legacy on the university and the wider community.
Facilities
- Football stadium: Bishop Schmitt Field
- Basketball arena: McDonough Center
- Baseball stadium: J.B.
Conference Standings: A Snapshot of the Competitive Landscape
The following conference standings provide a glimpse into the competitive landscape of NCAA Division II football, showcasing the performance of various teams across different conferences:
2026 NCAA Division II Standings
CIAA Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Union | 8-0 | 9-3 |
| Johnson C Smith | 6-1 | 10-2 |
| Fayetteville State | 6-1 | 6-4 |
| Virginia State | 5-3 | 6-4 |
| Elizabeth City State | 4-3 | 4-6 |
| Livingstone | 3-4 | 5-5 |
| Bluefield State University | 2-5 | 3-7 |
| Shaw | 2-5 | 2-8 |
| Winston-Salem | 2-5 | 4-6 |
| Bowie State | 2-6 | 3-7 |
| Lincoln (PA) | 0-7 | 0-10 |
Conference Carolinas
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| North Greenville | 7-0 | 7-5 |
| UNC Pembroke | 5-2 | 8-3 |
| Ferrum | 3-3 | 4-7 |
| Chowan | 3-4 | 4-7 |
| Barton | 3-4 | 3-8 |
| Erskine | 1-5 | 1-10 |
| Shorter | 1-5 | 2-9 |
GLIAC Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Ferris State | 7-0 | 16-0 |
| Saginaw Valley State | 5-2 | 6-5 |
| Grand Valley State | 5-2 | 7-3 |
| Michigan Tech | 4-3 | 7-4 |
| Davenport | 4-4 | 5-5 |
| Northern Michigan | 3-5 | 3-8 |
| Roosevelt | 1-6 | 2-8 |
| Wayne State (MI) | 0-7 | 0-11 |
Great American Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Harding University | 11-0 | 15-1 |
| Southern Arkansas | 8-3 | 8-3 |
| Henderson State | 8-3 | 8-3 |
| Arkansas Tech | 7-4 | 7-5 |
| Ouachita Baptist | 7-4 | 7-4 |
| Southwestern Oklahoma State | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| East Central (OK) | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| Southeastern Oklahoma State | 5-6 | 5-6 |
| Oklahoma Baptist | 2-9 | 2-9 |
| Northwestern Oklahoma State | 2-9 | 2-9 |
| Arkansas-Monticello | 2-9 | 2-9 |
| Southern Nazarene | 2-9 | 2-9 |
Great Lakes Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis | 8-0 | 11-2 |
| Truman State | 7-1 | 8-4 |
| Upper Iowa | 6-2 | 9-3 |
| Quincy | 4-4 | 6-5 |
| Missouri S&T | 4-4 | 6-5 |
| McKendree | 4-4 | 4-7 |
| Southwest Baptist | 2-6 | 3-7 |
| William Jewell | 1-7 | 3-8 |
| Lincoln (MO) | 0-8 | 2-9 |
Great Midwest Athletic Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Findlay | 8-1 | 10-2 |
| Ashland | 8-1 | 10-2 |
| Northwood (MI) | 7-2 | 9-3 |
| Tiffin | 6-3 | 7-4 |
| Hillsdale | 5-4 | 6-5 |
| Walsh | 4-5 | 6-5 |
| Ohio Dominican | 4-5 | 5-5 |
| Lake Erie | 2-7 | 2-9 |
| Thomas More College | 1-8 | 1-10 |
| Kentucky Wesleyan | 0-9 | 0-11 |
Gulf South Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Valdosta State | 3-0 | 6-5 |
| West Florida | 2-1 | 10-1 |
| Delta State | 1-2 | 7-3 |
| West Alabama | 0-3 | 5-4 |
Independent DII
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Northeastern State | 1-0 | 7-3 |
Lone Star Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Central Washington | 9-0 | 10-2 |
| UT Permian Basin | 7-2 | 11-3 |
| Western Oregon | 7-2 | 8-3 |
| West Texas A&M | 7-2 | 8-4 |
| Texas A&M-Kingsville | 4-5 | 5-6 |
| Angelo State | 4-5 | 6-5 |
| Eastern New Mexico | 3-6 | 3-8 |
| Midwestern State | 3-6 | 3-8 |
| Western New Mexico | 1-8 | 2-9 |
| Sul Ross State | 0-9 | 0-11 |
Mid America Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburg State | 8-1 | 10-2 |
| Northwest Missouri State | 8-1 | 9-3 |
| Central Oklahoma | 6-3 | 6-5 |
| Central Missouri | 5-4 | 5-6 |
| Fort Hays State | 5-4 | 6-5 |
| Nebraska-Kearney | 4-5 | 6-5 |
| Emporia State | 4-5 | 5-6 |
| Missouri Western | 2-7 | 3-8 |
| Washburn | 2-7 | 3-8 |
| Missouri Southern State | 1-8 | 3-8 |
Mountain East Conference
| Team | CONFO | OVR |
|---|---|---|
| Frostburg State | 7-1 | 11-2 |
| University Of Charleston (WV) | 7-1 | 8-3 |
| Wheeling | 5-3 | 6-5 |
| Glenville State | 5-3 | 6-5 |
| West Virginia State | 4-4 | 5-6 |
| Fairmont State | 3-5 | 6-5 |
| West Liberty | 3-5 | 3-8 |
| Concord | 2-6 | 4-7 |
| West Virginia Wesleyan | 0-8 | 0-11 |
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tags: #wheeling #university #football #history
