BREAKING: James Gmiter Announces Return to WVU Football, Tells Rich Rodriguez He’ll Help Win Back the Black Diamond Trophy for a Second WVU Victory…

BREAKING: James Gmiter Announces Return to WVU Football, Tells Rich Rodriguez He’ll Help Win Back the Black Diamond Trophy for a Second WVU Victory…

 

West Virginia University football received a major boost this week as offensive lineman James Gmiter announced his return to the program. Gmiter, a veteran presence on the offensive line, brings both experience and leadership back to the Mountaineers at a crucial time. His return is particularly symbolic as WVU sets its sights on reclaiming the prestigious Black Diamond Trophy in its rivalry with Virginia Tech.

In a statement shared via social media and later confirmed by WVU Athletics, Gmiter declared his intent to rejoin the team, emphasizing unfinished business. “I’ve still got work to do here,” Gmiter said. “I want to help bring that trophy back home to Morgantown — again.”

Gmiter’s message wasn’t just to Mountaineer fans. He made a point to reach out to former WVU head coach and current Jacksonville State coach Rich Rodriguez, who helped shape WVU’s football identity in the early 2000s. According to sources close to the program, Gmiter told Rodriguez directly, “Coach, I’m coming back. I want to be part of the team that wins the Black Diamond Trophy again.”

The Black Diamond Trophy, awarded to the winner of the rivalry game between West Virginia and Virginia Tech, carries deep historical and emotional significance. First introduced in 1997, the trophy represents the rich Appalachian coal heritage shared by both states. Although the rivalry has seen gaps over the years due to conference realignments, it remains one of college football’s most intense matchups whenever the two teams meet.

WVU last claimed the trophy in 2021 with a dramatic win at Milan Puskar Stadium. That game marked a turning point in the program’s development under head coach Neal Brown. Gmiter, who started that game, was a key contributor to the victory and now returns with hopes of doing it again — this time, perhaps with even more on the line.

Fans and analysts alike are optimistic about what Gmiter’s return means for the team. Known for his physical play, consistency, and leadership in the locker room, Gmiter has been a fixture on the offensive line since his debut. His presence could provide the stability and toughness WVU needs to push for a strong season, especially with critical matchups ahead.

For Gmiter, this isn’t just about football. It’s about pride, legacy, and finishing what he started. “The Mountaineers mean everything to me,” he said. “We’ve got goals to reach, and I want to be out there fighting for every inch with my brothers.”

With renewed motivation, returning talent, and eyes set firmly on the Black Diamond Trophy, James Gmiter’s comeback could mark the beginning of a memorable chapter in West Virginia football history.