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Why Fan Ownership Matters — And How It Makes Us Stronger
Across the world of sports, fans have always been the heart and soul of the game. We show up, we cheer, we wear the colors—and in many cases, we carry the legacy of our teams across generations. But what happens when fans become more than just spectators? What happens when fans become owners ? Fan ownership isn’t a trend—it’s a movement. And it’s one that is redefining how sports teams interact with their communities, how they build loyalty, and how they stay true to the valu
rommel7960
7 days ago3 min read


The Rebirth of the Continental Football League: A New Era of Community-Driven Pro Football
In the summer of 2026 , professional football returns to markets and fans who’ve long been overlooked by the giants of the sport. The Continental Football League (CoFL) —a revived successor to the original 1960s minor-league institution—is gearing up to reintroduce affordable, community-focused gridiron action across the United States. What once was a forgotten league is now being reborn with new energy, ambition, and purpose. A Legacy Rediscovered The Continental Football Le
rommel7960
Jan 203 min read
Behind the Scenes: A Day Inside Ironmen Training Camp
For football fans, training camp often carries images of endless practices and physical survival. But for the Ohio Valley Ironmen, camp is something different — structured, efficient, and built on professional standards. This isn’t chaos. It’s preparation. From the outside, you see helmets and pads. Inside the program, you see planning, accountability, and a clear vision for building a winning roster. Here’s what a real day inside Ironmen training camp looks like. Before the
rommel7960
Jan 153 min read


Player Spotlight: The Road That Brought JaVonte Howard to the Ironmen
From Opportunity to Leadership Every journey to professional football is different, but the path that led JaVonte Howard to the Ohio Valley Ironmen is defined by preparation, perseverance, and purpose. From earning his opportunity at a local tryout to becoming the leader of the Ironmen offense, JaVonte’s story reflects exactly what this organization is built on — growth, accountability, and belief. As the Ironmen prepare for the 2026 Continental Football League season, JaVon
rommel7960
Jan 63 min read


Inside the CoFL: Why the “People’s League” Is Changing Minor League Football
When the Continental Football League (CoFL) re-emerged, it wasn’t just another minor league football startup—it was a statement. Built around community pride, fan engagement, and historic franchises like the Ohio Valley Ironmen , the CoFL is positioning itself as something different: a true “People’s League.” In an era where many leagues struggle to survive, the CoFL is challenging the traditional minor league model by putting fans, players, and communities at the center of
rommel7960
Dec 30, 20253 min read


From Steel Mills to Sidelines: The Blue-Collar Spirit That Built the Ironmen
The Ohio Valley has always been a place where nothing comes easy. Long before game-day crowds and stadium lights, this region was built by men and women who worked long shifts, came home tired, and showed up again the next day without complaint. Steel mills, rail yards, factories, and small businesses shaped not only the landscape, but the character of the people who call this place home. That same character is woven directly into the identity of the Ohio Valley Ironmen . Thi
rommel7960
Dec 23, 20253 min read
Meet the Fans: Why the Ohio Valley Shows Up for Football
There’s something about football in the Ohio Valley that goes far beyond the scoreboard. When the Ohio Valley Ironmen take the field, fans aren’t just watching a game — they’re participating in a tradition woven deep into the identity of the region. This isn’t just football. This is culture, community, and pride. Here’s why the Ohio Valley shows up every time. Legacy, Identity, and the Power of Generational Pride The Ironmen have roots that run deep. The franchise traces its
info2604911
Dec 16, 20253 min read


5 Things Only True Ironmen Fans Understand About Ohio Valley Pride
There’s something different about football in the Ohio Valley. Outsiders feel the energy, but they don’t fully understand it. They haven’t lived the stories, the traditions, or the grit that define this region. They don’t know what the Ironmen name means to the people who remember the past and those who proudly carry the torch today. But real Ironmen fans? They know it instantly. They feel it deeply. They live it every season. Here are five things only true Ironmen fans under
info2604911
Dec 13, 20252 min read


The Ironmen Legacy: How Wheeling Fell in Love With Its Team
In the Ohio Valley, football has always been more than a game — it’s a thread that stitches generations together. But no team has embodied that spirit more powerfully than the Ironmen. Their legacy, first forged in 1962, continues to echo through Wheeling today. It’s a story of grit, pride, and a community that refuses to let its history fade. This is how Wheeling fell in love with its team — and why the Ironmen’s flame still burns brighter than ever. Forged in 1962 — The Bir
info2604911
Dec 9, 20255 min read


Former Wheeling Park great Daryl "Boogie" Johnson is the first coach announced to join Matsakis' initial staff with the Ohio Valley Ironmen
Manny Matsakis finally got his man. Former Wheeling Park great Daryl "Boogie" Johnson is the first coach announced to join Matsakis'...
OVI Staff
May 8, 20252 min read


Before the Ohio Valley Ironmen ...
Forged in Steel: The Story of the Wheeling Ironmen In the rolling hills of West Virginia, where steel mills once roared and Friday nights...
OVI Staff
Apr 11, 20253 min read


Join the Ohio Valley Ironmen Team: Exciting Sales Opportunities Await!
Are you looking for an opportunity to earn great money while working on your own schedule? Do you have strong communication skills and a...
OVI Staff
Apr 4, 20252 min read


Upcoming Preseason Game ...
The Ohio Valley Ironmen are set to make their highly anticipated debut in a preseason showdown against the Cincinnati Dukes on May 23,...
OVI Staff
Mar 27, 20251 min read


The Ohio Valley Ironmen set another Tryout.
The Ohio Valley Ironmen are hosting professional football tryouts on April 6, 2025, at Walnut Hills High School (South Field), 3250...
OVI Staff
Mar 19, 20251 min read


Manny Matsakis came home, and he brought the family business with him.
Manny Matsakis, OC Winnipeg Blue Bombers and QB Michael Bishop The 1980 Shadyside High grad is the head coach/general manager of the Ohio...
OVI Staff
Mar 12, 20254 min read
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