Title defense continues for Wheeling Central Catholic with several key returners
2026 Summer Previews
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Sports
The standard hasn't changed at Wheeling Central Catholic.
Fresh off the program's 13th state championship, the Maroon Knights are focused on one goal—winning it again.
Head coach Mike Young returns an experienced core led by third-year starting quarterback Nico Kusic, standout linebacker Trenton McCardle, All-State lineman Dom Paesani, and a veteran offensive line determined to lead another championship run.
Despite graduating several All-State players, Wheeling Central believes its culture, leadership, and daily commitment to improvement will keep the Maroon Knights among the favorites in Class A. A healthy Dustin Sanner and one of the state's toughest schedules should have the Knights battle-tested for another postseason push.
Can Wheeling Central capture back-to-back state championships for the first time since 2019?
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