Brueck, Casto, O’Connor, Bealles selected for the upcoming OVAC All-Star contest
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When B.J. Depew and his coaching staff began to consider their linemen for the 75th OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star football game, they weren't just looking at size.
Actually, the Linsly head coach, who will guide West Virginia in the July 24th game at Wheeling Island Stadium, wanted athleticism first and foremost.
"Most of our linemen are really good athletes on top of being good linemen," Depew said. "We know we have some really good players in the group despite some being undersized. We just need to find ways to take advantage of their skillsets."
Here's a capsule look at the players:
DANIEL BEALLES, Oak Glen -- This former Golden Bear was a key cog on both sides of the ball for coach Ted Arneault's squad.
The 6-foot, 180-pounder saw time at guard and middle linebacker.
Daniel is the son of Chester Bealles Jr. and Laura Rudibaugh.
JORDAN BRUECK, Weir High -- This former Red Rider was a leader for coach Frank Sisinni's team.
The 6-4, 245-pounder earned four letters and was named a team captain. He also was an All-OVAC performer.
Away from football, Brueck was a member of the National Honor Society, Academic All-OVAC and graduated with honors.
On top of football, Brueck placed third in the West Virginia State Wrestling Tournament.
Jordan, who plans to attend Bethany, is the son of Jim and Jennifer Brueck.
KYLER O'CONNOR, Oak Glen -- This former Golden Bear was a steady contributor for Arneault's team.
The 6-foot, 195-pounder posted 66 tackles and 11 sacks as a senior in just seven games. He logged 95 tackles and 10 sacks as a junior and 51 tackles and three sacks as a sophomore. On the offensive side, O'Connor didn't allow a sack.
O'Connor was named first-team all-state as a junior and senior. He also was named All-OVAC.
On top of football, O'Connor was active in wrestling and track.
Kyler is the son of James and Anna Chestnut.
SAM CASTO, Brooke -- This former Bruin shined on both lines for coach Mac McLean's team.
Sam is the son of Brian and Michelle Casto.
MARCO APREA, Linsly -- This former Cadet shined at defensive end for Depew's team.
The 5-11, 185-pounder posted 90 tackles, including 15 for loss and four sacks during his career. He also logged two defensive touchdowns.
Aprea was recognized twice as defensive player of the week.
Marco, who is the son of Tony and Lisa Aprea, plans to attend Ohio University.
DEONDRE CRUDUP, Morgantown -- This former Mohigan got it done on both sides of the ball for Coach Sean Biser's team.
The 5-10, 250-pounder rushed for 1,200 yards in 10 games as a fullback. On the defensive side, he recorded more than 100 tackles and 27 sacks in his career.
A three-year letterman, Crudup twice earned honorable mention all-state, first-team All-OVAC and All-TRAC.
Deondre, who is planning to attend Glenville State, is the son of Andrew and Dana Crudup.
DIMITRIUS DESHIELDS, University -- This former Hawk shined along the defensive line for Coach John Kelley's team.
The 6-1, 275-pounder recorded 31 tackles, including 21 solo and a sack last season in six games.
DeShields, who plans to attend Bethany College, is the son of Quentine and Jesse DeShields.
SPENCER HELMS, Wheeling Central -- This former Maroon Knight helped anchor both lines for coach Mike Young's team.
The 6-foot, 220-pounder posted 38 tackles, 3.5 sacks and broke up a pass last season.
Helms was named second-team all-state, All-OVAC and was awarded the Lou Mack Award.
Away from football, Helms is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council President and Drug Free Club. He also served on the Wheeling Central Student Enrollment Board.
Spencer, who plans to attend Ohio State University, is the son of David and Susan Helms.
ISAAC KELLER, Magnolia -- This former Blue Eagle was a consistent player on both lines for coach Doc Chapman's team.
The 5-10, 220-pounder posted 34 tackles, including seven for loss, blocked two kicks, posted two sacks and broke up two passes. Keller was named first-team All-OVAC.
Isaac, who plans to attend West Liberty University, is the son of Greg Keller.