Ironmen Legacy
Our Legacy
The Ohio Valley Ironmen, originally known as the Wheeling Ironmen, have a storied history that reflects the resilience and passion of the Ohio Valley region.
Founding and Early Success (1962–1964)
In 1962, a group of 15 local businessmen, each investing $1,000, established the Wheeling Ironmen as part of the United Football League (UFL). The team quickly made its mark, clinching back-to-back UFL championships in 1962 and 1963.
Transition to the Continental Football League (1965–1969)
Following the UFL's dissolution, the Ironmen became charter members of the Continental Football League (COFL) in 1965. Despite financial challenges, the team persisted, rebranding as the Ohio Valley Ironmen in 1968 to represent the broader region. Their dedication culminated in a strong 9-3 season in 1968.
Attempt to Join the Canadian Football League
In the mid-1960s, the Wheeling Ironmen explored the possibility of joining the Canadian Football League (CFL). This initiative was part of a broader effort by the COFL to establish working relationships with major leagues. However, the endeavor did not materialize, and the Ironmen continued their journey within the COFL.
Notable Players and Coaches
The Ironmen's roster featured several individuals who made significant contributions to football:
Sam Wyche: Served as the Ironmen's quarterback during the 1966 season. He later became the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals, leading them to Super Bowl XXIII.
Bob Brown: A standout defensive lineman for the Ironmen, Brown advanced to the NFL, playing for teams like the Green Bay Packers and the Cincinnati Bengals.
Tom Keane: As head coach, Keane guided the Ironmen to their early UFL championships.
He later served as an assistant coach under Don Shula with the Miami Dolphins.
Clyde Thomas: An all-state athlete from Bellaire High School and a standout at Ohio
University, Thomas was a hard-running halfback for the Ironmen. He briefly played for the
Philadelphia Eagles before returning to Wheeling, where he became the franchise's all-time leading rusher. After football, Thomas served four terms on Wheeling's City Council,
including as vice-mayor, and was instrumental in civic developments like the Wheeling
Civic Center.
John Amos: Before achieving fame as an actor, notably as James Evans Sr. on the sitcom
"Good Times," Amos played briefly for the Ironmen in 1965. His time in football included
stints with several minor league teams before he transitioned to a successful acting career.
Lou Blumling: Initially an assistant coach, Blumling became head coach in 1968. Under his leadership, the Ironmen achieved a 9-3 record in 1968, and he was named COFL Coach of the Year.
Championship Seasons and Rivalry with the Toledo Tornadoes
The Ironmen's championship runs were marked by intense matchups, particularly against the Toledo Tornadoes:
1963 UFL Championship: The Ironmen faced the Tornadoes, who had handed Wheeling their only regular-season loss. In a hard-fought game, the Ironmen emerged victorious with a 31-21 score, securing their second consecutive UFL title.
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Community Engagement & Legacy
The Ironmen were more than just a football team; they embodied the spirit of Wheeling and the Ohio Valley. Players balanced rigorous day jobs with their commitment to the sport, exemplifying determination and love for the game. This dedication fostered a loyal fan base and left an indelible mark on the community.
"Pro Football on a Shoestring"
The Ironmen's unique position in professional football was highlighted in a 1968 Sports Illustrated article titled "Pro Football on a Shoestring." The piece detailed the team's modest operations, including their use of a high school stadium and limited financial resources, underscoring their dedication and the community's unwavering support.
Revival and Continued Tradition
Today, as the Ohio Valley Ironmen, we honor this rich heritage by upholding the values of perseverance and community involvement. Our mission is to build upon this legacy, bringing pride and excitement to our fans and the region.
Explore Our History
Dive deeper into our past with this classic game footage: