A Milestone for McLean
The 80th annual OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star Football Game is scheduled for July 18 at Wheeling Island Stadium, where the St. Clairsville Buckeyes will be guided by head coach Brett McLean.
McLean, now in his 25th season, will mark his 200th career victory, a milestone that reflects two and a half decades of leadership in Ohio high school football.
A Deep Coaching Bench
The coaching staff assembled for the showcase blends deep community roots with extensive all-star experience, creating a narrative of continuity and expertise.
Chris Balog, a St. Clairsville graduate, returns to the all-star stage after first appearing as a player in the 1991 edition, bringing a player-turned-coach perspective.
Ben Frye, a two-time Defensive Assistant Coach of the Year, completes his 21st year with the program, underscoring his lasting impact on the defensive scheme.
Eric Gay, who has served the Red Devils for 15 years and also oversees basketball and baseball, adds a multi-sport dimension to the staff.
Don Giffin, the offensive coordinator, earned Offensive Coach of the Year laurels in 2011 and 2012, highlighting his offensive acumen.
Stephen Hicks balances wrestling and track duties while contributing to football preparation, illustrating the multi-sport commitment of the staff.
John Kutcher, in his seventh season with the Red Devils, brings 22 years of overall football coaching experience, enriching the program’s strategic depth.
Assistant coaches Chris Fogle and Kevin Sacco contribute 14 and 29 years of service respectively, while Vern Ridgway, a longtime collaborator of McLean, rounds out the experienced lineup.
Team managers Beau McLean, Hudson Pastor, Luca Hicks and Max Frye will support the players throughout the event, handling logistics and equipment.
Ohio holds a 46-31-2 lead in the all-time series, yet West Virginia’s narrow 15-14 victory last year sets the stage for another competitive showdown.
The game serves as a celebration of Ohio Valley talent, drawing participants from institutions such as Mount Union, West Liberty University, Salem University, West Virginia University and others that comprise the regional sports network.