Wheeling, W. Va. - More than 200 players, coaches, band members, band directors and cheerleaders will call Wheeling University home next week as they prepare for this year's all-star classic. Those participating in the week-long camp will arrive on the campus Monday, July 14 and begin practicing that afternoon.  

"It is always a great opportunity to welcome the OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star Football teams, band members, cheerleaders, and Queen of Queen candidates to our campus," said Wheeling University Athletic Director Carrie Hanna. "It is exciting to see the campus so full of life during the week and we always strive to be Wheeling's University by opening our doors to local community events." 

Coaching the 33 all-stars from Ohio will be Bernie Thompson and the coaching staff from Union Local High School. Tim Brown and the staff from Cameron High School will be the coaches for the West Virginia squad. 

While the teams are practicing in preparation for the game, band members from high schools on both sides of the Ohio River will be rehearsing to perform during halftime of the all-star game.  According to the OVAC, this year's band will have 170 members, the largest in the game's history. Once again, this year, Ben McPherson will serve as the band director for the McDonald's All-Star Band. 

Additionally, 25 cheerleaders will be at Wheeling University to prepare for the game. They will practice throughout the week in the Alma Grace McDonough Center and will have joint practices with the band as they prepare to take the field at Wheeling Island Stadium for the pregame and halftime show performances. This year's cheerleading squads will be coached by Casey Mozingo. 

The week on Wheeling University's campus will conclude with the 79th OVAC Rudy Mumley All Star Game Pep Rally on Friday, July 18th, at Bishop Schmitt Field. Each of the teams will be represented as well as the McDonald's All-Star Band, Cheerleaders, and Queen of Queens Candidates. The event begins at 6 PM at Bishop Schmitt Field and parents, friends, and fans are invited to join in the festivities. 

The 79th OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star Football Game will be held Saturday, July 19that Wheeling Island Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.