Shanna Rose I WV Sports Chat
MORGANTOWN, W.Va.- Coal mining runs deep in the heritage of West Virginians and on Thursday, the West Virginia Men’s basketball team took a trip to visit the Leer Mining Complex and learn about the state’s history and culture.
Head coach Ross Hodge, entering his first season with the Mountaineers, leads a completely new roster with the exception of returning center Abraham Oyeadier. With so many new faces on the court, Hodge wanted his players to understand what makes WVU athletics special—and how much it means to the people of the state.
“As soon as I got this job in the summer and had time to map out what I wanted to do with our team, without question one of the first things that came to mind was taking them to a coal mine,” Hodge said.
For Hodge, the trip was about more than a history lesson. It was about connecting the team to West Virginia’s blue-collar mentality, a defining trait of its residents.
“Getting our guys there to see, to appreciate, and to learn what makes this state a great state and what makes these people so important—that was the goal,” Hodge added.
The toughness and pride embodied by coal miners reflect the same values Hodge hopes his team will bring to the court. At WVU, wearing the gold and blue isn’t just about the logo on the jersey—it’s about representing an entire state.
The Mountaineers will put that mentality to the test when they open the season with an exhibition against Wheeling University on October 26 at the Coliseum.
Photo Credit: WVU Athletics
