Unveiling Excitement: Wheeling University Kicks Off Fall Athletics with Its Inaugural Media Day!

Wheeling, W. Va. — On Tuesday, Wheeling University kicked off its 2025-2026 athletic season with its first-ever Fall Sports Media Day. The spotlight was on the teams from men’s and women’s golf, cross country, rugby, soccer, volleyball, and football, all gathering at the Alma Grace McDonough Center. Coaches shared their excitement and insights as the teams gear up for the season.

The day began with a prayer from Father David Griffin, the Director of Campus Ministry. Following that, the Head Coaches took the stage. Thadd Obecny, the Men’s and Women’s Golf Coach, sent a message from the West Virginia Open Championship. He aims to build a strong culture within a young team, with many players still in their early college years. Top players include sophomore Ella Keffer for the women and grad students Sean Dobson and Zak Collins for the men.

Obecny expressed his excitement, stating, “I am here to win championships. That’s what our future holds.” His goal is to chase the MEC Championship this fall and continue the momentum into the spring.

Next was Greg Schmitt, newly appointed as the Head Coach for Men’s and Women’s Cross Country. With 19 years of coaching under his belt, he’s ready to rebuild the program. This year, seven newcomers will join the team. Graduate student Hunter Tomich aims for All-MEC honors after a strong finish last year. For the women, Gabby Baiano returns as the only returning athlete from last year, looking to make an impact.

Schmitt emphasized teamwork and hard work, saying, “We have a young and talented team. I can’t wait to meet everyone.” Wheeling’s Women’s Rugby team also made waves last season, going 12-0 and capturing the National Collegiate Rugby DI National Title. With a new JV side added this year, the program expects to grow even more, entering with around 60 new athletes.

Head Men’s Rugby Coach Ken Pape highlighted the team’s ambition: “We aim to be just the third team in NCR history to win back-to-back championships.” They’re also raising the stakes with a tougher schedule, facing teams like Penn State and Ohio State.

On the soccer front, Coach Ryan Wall is leading the women’s team into a new season. After reaching the MEC Women’s Soccer Tournament last year, the Cardinals are determined to continue their progress. Freshmen and sophomores make up much of the team now, and Wall is focused on reshaping the culture to prioritize winning.

“We want to compete for the MEC title, not just participate,” Wall asserted. Meanwhile, on the men’s side, Coach Brandon Regan is optimistic about returning talent and a promising influx of new players. The aim is to climb back into playoff contention.

The Wheeling volleyball team faces a major transition with 10 new players this season. Despite the turnover, Coach Christy Benner emphasizes the importance of maintaining the program’s tradition of excellence. Key players like Katie Wilking and Olivia Batch, who received All-MEC honors last season, will lead the way.

Finally, the football team is also set for another challenging season. Head Coach Zac Bruney noted the balance of veterans and newcomers prepared to take on responsibilities. With players like Landon Lutz and Dawaun Green returning, expectations are high for continued success.

The 2025-2026 season officially kicks off on August 28th when the Wheeling Football team faces Clarion at 6 PM. Each of these teams is eager to build on past successes and create new experiences in the year ahead.

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