Glenville State athletic director Jesse Skiles, left, and Gilmer County athletic director Nathan Haynes helped create the Glenville State University High School Football Kickoff Classic, which begins next fall. (Photo Provided)

GLENVILLE — Two-time defending Class A state champion Williamstown, which is currently competing in double-A, will be part of next year’s inaugural Glenville State University High School Football Kickoff Classic set for Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025.

A collaboration between Pioneers’ athletic director Jesse Skiles and Glenville State AD Nathan Haynes, the planned annual event will feature four prep games at Morris Stadium with kickoff times set for 11 a.m., 2:10 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Participating schools will have the opportunity to take in a Glenville State football practice from 8-10 a.m. before Midland Trail and Clay County clash for the first time in the new event.

“We were contacted about it and it eventually worked out,” admitted Yellowjacket head coach Chris Beck, whose program has the 2:10 game versus James Monroe.

“We thought we had committed before with Greenbrier West, but communication got lost and we ended up on this slot. We will be young. Not sure what they’ll have, but looking forward to it.”

Roane County and head coach Paul Burdette’s Raiders have the nightcap against the GWHS Cavaliers, while the 5:20 p.m. affair features Nitro and Hedgesville.

“It gives you something in the offseason to look forward to week one,” coach Beck added. “It’s something different. It’s a fun opportunity for us.”

Glenville State is hoping to take advantage of the event by showcasing the school for potential student-athletes.

Players and fans from each participating school will have the opportunity to tour the university’s facilities and interface with academics, admissions and extracurricular programs.

“Really, the purpose is to showcase the town of Glenville, this county and the community,” Skiles stated. “We have an amazing history of what Gilmer County students have accomplished not just athletically, but academically throughout the years.

“We want to take that relationship to another level and collaborate where we are part of this together. These are some traditional power schools that are coming, and to get them here and to give them a great experience – we are really excited about that.”

Not only will the Titans and Pioneers benefit financially, but so too will each football team that participates.

Gilmer County is managing logistical support and running the ticket gate, which they will receive 20% of proceeds. The football teams will be allotted 10% payout from the total gate ticket profit.

GSU will retain all profit from running concessions and parking during the event.

“I think this could be the biggest high school event in the state of West Virginia outside of the state championship games,” Haynes said. “I’ve reached out to schools in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

“I think we are going to be able to attract some of the best competition in four or five states.”

Fans can purchase a ticket that is good for every game at a cost of $12 for adults and $5 for students. There is a $5 parking fee.

Also, Mountain State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt will perform the ceremonial coin toss for the final game.

*McKinley Buckley contributed to this story.