Last season, the Mingo Central Miners got back on track under head coach David Jones. The Miners finished with an 8-2 regular season record and qualified for the playoffs. This season, Jones is hoping that his squad will take the next step forward.
“There were a lot of positives last season,” said Jones. “We were able to make the playoffs and host a playoff game. We finished ranked 6th in Class AA. The seniors laid the foundation for what we want to do, and that’s to rebuild and get Mingo Central back to dominance again. They set a standard that we’re going to keep trying to reach.”
KEY LOSSES: Chris Ross, Malaki Sheppard, Chaz Waine, Alex Muncy, Deucey Prater
KEY RETURNERS: Dylan Vance, Aidan Burke, LeQues Strother, Donavon Valdelamar
OFFENSE
The Miners will replace star quarterback Chris Ross. Currently, Mingo Central has two guys fighting for the top spot. Jaxon Nenni-Mills and Caden Porter are currently battling for the top spot. Whoever gets the job will have quite a few weapons around him.
They’ll be joined in the backfield by all-state running back Dylan Vance. Vance is a dynamic playmaker who can contribute in the rushing and receiving game. Jace “Bam” Coleman could see a more expanded role this season. Davion Joplin is also expected to see some big minutes.
Aidan Burke comes back after an all-state season to lead the receiving corps. Donavon Valdelamar should see some opportunities to make some big plays. Freshman Jacob Maynard is expected to do some big things for the Miners on the outside and at tight end. Keziah Joplin will also see some big minutes. Brennon Harrison should see some time at tight end. LeQues Strother will spend some time as the H-Back.
On the offensive line, Rilee Hatfield, Logan Hurley, Gary Pope, Dylan Mounts and Bradley Patrick all return to anchor the front. Blake Hardin, Corey Mahon and freshman Garon Hinkle should also see some time in the trenches.
DEFENSE
On the defensive front, Hatfield, Jace Harmon and Ashton Kinser are expected to play big minutes on the line with some others fighting for spots. Owen Harris will also receing playing time at nose guard for Mingo Central.
At linebacker, James Moore is expected to lead the way on the outside. Taegan Hackney and Strother are expected to anchor the inside linebacker positions.Seth Boseman and Landon Sawyers are competing for the other outside linebacker spot. Freshman Peyton Parker should also see some time at linebacker.
In the defensive backfield, Damari Young is expected to be a shutdown corner. Bo Hatfield, Burke and Davion Joplin should spend time at safety. Jacob Blankenship and Valdelamar should see some time at cornerback as well. Mason Kinder also should see some time in the defensive backfield.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Valdelamar, Burke and Vance should all see plenty of opportunities for big plays in the return game. Jacob Blankenship will be kicking field goals and extra points for Mingo Central this season.
SCHEDULE
08/29/24 – Tug Valley
09/06/24 – @Westside
09/13/24 – Liberty-Raleigh
09/20/24 – Man
09/27/24 – Point Pleasant
10/04/24 – Scott
10/18/24 – @Independence
10/25/24 – @Roane County
11/01/24 – Chapmanville Regional
11/08/24 – @Logan
OUTLOOK
The Miners look poised to continue the growth of their program. While a few key players left, lots of firepower remains. Look for Mingo Central to be one of the better teams in Class AA this season.
