Arena football is back in Wheeling, and the Miners are ready to take the field with bigger goals, tougher competition, and an exciting new chapter in their journey. Fresh off a championship win in 2024, the Wheeling Miners are moving up to the National Arena League (NAL), and fans can expect an action-packed season filled with intense rivalries, thrilling matchups, and plenty of community events.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Jamie Simons, Director of Community Relations and Group Sales for the Wheeling Miners, to discuss the team’s upcoming season. With a new league, a tougher level of competition, and plenty of exciting home games on the horizon, there’s a lot for Miners fans to look forward to in 2025.
Season Kickoff & League Transition
The Miners are stepping into the National Arena League (NAL) after securing the AAL2 Championship in 2024. This move brings a higher level of competition and an opportunity to showcase Wheeling football on a national stage.
This is a huge opportunity to bring a National League to the Ohio Valley. The competition is much better than last year, and the fans are really gonna enjoy this brand of indoor football.
Simons also pointed out, the team’s management have set their sights on not just competing but excelling in their debut NAL season.
“Ultimately, we want to improve on all aspects from last season. 2024 was a great season, but for us to be one of the top teams in the country, we just need to tighten up production and really everything from top to bottom.”
Miners Nation Kick-Off Party
The Wheeling Miners are kicking off the 2025 season with a special event for fans. The Miners Nation Kick-Off Party will take place on Saturday, March 1st, at the 19th Hole in Wheeling, WV, from 2 pm to 5 pm. This celebratory event will allow fans to meet the entire 2025 Miners roster, pick up their season tickets, and enjoy an evening of excitement. Attendees will also have the chance to meet Cole, the Miners’ mascot, and the Lady Miners Dance Team, while a live DJ keeps the energy high. Miners merchandise from both the 2024 and 2025 seasons will be available for purchase, and fans can buy tickets for the highly anticipated Pittsburgh Steelers Autograph Session as well as season and single-game tickets. For more details, visit gowvminers.com or contact info@gowvminers.com.
Home Game Schedule & Special Events
Miners fans can look forward to some electrifying home games at WesBanco Arena, with key matchups including:
- March 10 (Season Opener) vs. Colorado Spartans
- April 19 vs. Carolina Cobras (Rivalry Match)
- May 10 vs. Beaumont Renegades
- May 17 vs. Sioux City Bandits
- May 24 vs. Columbus Lions
The Miners are hosting the home games with theme nights to celebrate the community:
- March 10 – Education/Youth Night
- April 19 – Military & First Responders Appreciation
- May 10 – Wizards and Wands Night
- May 17 – Halloween Nightmare on 14th Street
- May 24 – Coal Miners Appreciation Night (Coal workers always receive 50% off tickets!)
Key Players & Roster Highlights
The Miners are returning with a strong lineup, including QB Grant Russell, who is back to defend last year’s title. With 16 returning players from last season’s championship team, chemistry and experience will be the Miners’ biggest strengths.
“A lot of the players look amazing and ready to have a great season,” said Simons. “The camaraderie and cohesiveness of this team will be what allows them to repeat a championship win.”
Fan Experience & Community Engagement
What sets the Wheeling Miners apart? Their deep commitment to the local community.
“Our biggest focus is the community,” said Simons. The team actively participates in school visits, fundraisers, and local events.
This season, the Miners are introducing new fan initiatives, including:
- Youth Flag Football League powered by the Wheeling YMCA
- Reading Book Club in local elementary schools
- Partnerships with Appalachian Outreach & Appalachian Martial Arts to support local nonprofit efforts
When asked what he loves about the Wheeling community, Head Coach Joshua Resignalo had this to say:
The support that everyone gives feels like we’ve been here a long time. That helps make all the hard work put into this that much better.
What’s at Stake This Season
In their first NAL season, the Miners have one clear goal: win another championship and establish themselves as a dominant force in the league.
With tough competition ahead, every game matters. The season opener against Colorado, rivalry matchups against Carolina, and key showdowns with Sioux City and Columbus will be crucial tests for the team.
“We’ve put together a really good coaching staff for 2025. Definitely one of the top staffs in the game across the country. That and the preparation we put in as a team will be very evident on game days,” said Simons.
How to Get Involved
Want to be part of the action? Here’s how you can support the Miners:
- Get your tickets: Purchase online at gowvminers.com, call the WesBanco Arena Box Office at 304-233-7000, or buy in person.
- Group sales: Contact Jamie Simons at jamie@gowvminers.com for group ticket discounts.
- Follow the Miners: Stay updated on Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for the team’s newsletter at gowvminers.com.
Get ready, Wheeling—football season is here, and the Miners are ready to shine!
