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Kelley Values the Versatility of West Virginia’s Backs

Whether it was at quarterback or running back, University head coach John Kelley was seeking versatility when he and his staff put together their backfield options for the 75th OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star Game.

When you consider quarterback Santino Arlia along with running backs Isaac Ball, Daminn Cunningham, Adam Dolata and Cody Martos, the head coach for the West Virginia squad believes he found it.

“Arlia can really sling it, but the scouting reports from other coaches is if you can’t protect him, he can run with it, too,” Kelley said. “As for the running backs, we have a nice mix of speed, power and guys who can catch the ball out of the backfield. We have a nice blend and good blocking guys.”

Here’s a capsule look at the players:

SANTINO ARLIA, Madonna — This former Blue Don had a career to remember for Coach Dan Rovira’s team.

The 6-2, 150-pounder completed 510 of 935 passes for 6,850 yards and 85 touchdowns. He also rushed for five touchdowns.

Arlia was named Second Team All-State, First-Team All-OVAC and All-Valley as a senior. As a junior, he earned the exact same accolades. As a sophomore, he was Second-Team All-OVAC and All-Valley.

Away from football, Arlia is a member of the National Honor Society.

Santino, who plans to attend Wheeling University, is the son of Mike and Maribeth Arlia.

ISAAC BALL, Cameron — This former Dragon posted a big season on both sides of the ball for Coach Tim Brown’s squad.

The 5-10, 170-pounder rushed for 1,520 yards and 20 touchdowns. On the defensive side, he posted 51 tackles and picked off seven passes.

Isaac, who plans to attend West Liberty, is the son of Joni Ball.

DAMINN CUNNINGHAM, University — This senior did a little bit of everything for Kelley’s team during his prep career.

The 5-6, 155 pounder shined at running back, defensive back and as a special teams player.

Cunningham also had a big track season for the Hawks, who won the Class AAA state team title. He was a standout in the sprints and high jump.

Cunningham, who plans to attend West Liberty, is the son of Willie Cunningham and Peggy Jones.

ADAM DOLATA, Linsly — This former Cadet had a strong season on both sides of the ball for head coach B.J. Depew.

The 6-2, 238 pounder paved the way for a strong Linsly running attack. He averaged 4.5 yards a carry and scored 2 touchdowns in his limited touches. He delivered 15 “pancake” blocks from his fullback spot. Defensively, he posted 63 tackles, including three for loss.

Dolata was named First Team All-OVAC, All-Valley and received the All-OVAC Academic Award. He also won the Stobbs Award, which Linsly gives to its outstanding senior lineman.

Along with football, Dolata was in the Linsly wrestling lineup at the heavyweight spot.

Adam, who plans to attend Dickinson College, is the son of Malgonzala Bnodowska and he’s originally from Poland.

CODY MARTOS, Wheeling Central — This Maroon Knight product put together a solid season in all phases for Coach Mike Young’s squad.

The 5-9, 170 pounder accumulated 1,304 all-purpose yards. Defensively, at linebacker, he really made his mark with 148 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, three fumble recoveries and two pass breakups.

For his efforts, Martos was named All-Valley and All-OVAC.

Away from football, Martos was a member of the Drug Free Club of America, a volunteer with the Miracle League and a volunteer with Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army.

Cody, who plans to attend West Liberty, is the son of Ron and Patricia Martos.

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