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Loy guides OVAC

WHEELING, W.Va. — Bruce Stiles likes the makeup of his Ohio roster for the annual OVAC Rudy Mumley All-Star Football Game.

But, like all coaches, Stiles has some apprehension about certain areas. And though linebacker is one of those areas, it’s not because of the level of talent. It’s because of depth.

The former Union Local head coach, who will guide Team Ohio at Wheeling Island Stadium on July 28 feels good about the kids he and his staff selected, but know some jockeying could still occur when the players report to Bethany College in less than a week to begin camp.

“When we started out (picking the roster), we were thin there,” Stiles admitted. “We’ve gradually picked some up and we have some kids who have some experience there. The kids we have are solid options.”

Here’s a capsule look at the players:

MICHAEL LOY, East Liverpool — This former Potter shined at linebacker for coach Josh Ludwig’s team.

The 5-8, 165-pounder posted 151 tackles to set a school record as a junior. He finished with 300 tackles in three seasons. He also had 10 sacks, two interceptions and 10 tackles for loss.

Loy’s efforts were recognized via his placement on the All-Eastern District team. He was honorable mention All-Ohio, All-OVAC.

Along with football, Loy wrestled and competed in track and field. He was also a member of the French Club and National Honor Society.

Michael, who is the son of Ava Sabol, plans to attend Cincinnati Christian.

KOBY BERGER, Cambridge — This former Bobcat was a four-year mainstay at linebacker for Coach Kevin Gunn’s team.

The 6-foot, 200 pounder led the team as a senior with 91 tackles. He also blocked two punts and four field goals. He had 11 tackles for loss and two quarterback sacks.

Berger was a first-team All-Eastern District pick, honorable mention all-Ohio and OVAC pick. He was also named to the second-team All-ECOL squad.

Along with football, Berger was a letterman in baseball and track, too.

Away from athletics, Berger is a member of the National Honor Society.

Koby, who is the son of Jody and Julie Berger and Lynn Bachman, plans to attend Marietta College.

ALEX KRUPA, Shadyside — This former Tiger shined on both sides of the ball for Coach Mark Holenka’s team.

The 6-2, 220-pounder shined at running back and defensive end. He rushed for more than 1,000 yards an scored a school-record five touchdowns in a game.

Krupa was named second-team All-Eastern District, All-OVAC and All-Times Leader.

Alex, who plans to attend West Virginia Wesleyan, is the son of Erik and Kate Krupa.

CODY RAY, Union Local — This former Jet shined in a myriad of areas for Stiles’ squad.

The 6-foot, 200-pounder lined up at center and middle linebacker. He had 100 tackles, including 63 solo. He was the team’s top offensive lineman with a 91 percent grade.

Ray was second-team All-Ohio, first-team All-Eastern District, All-OVAC, All-Buckeye 8, All-Times Leader and finished with three letters.

Along with football, Ray was a standout in baseball and basketball, earning multiple letters in both sports. He’s also a member of the National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Students.

Cody plans to attend Ohio Valley College to play baseball.

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