THE OHIO Valley Athletic Conference once again puts its best foot forward Saturday night with the enshrinement of the 12th class into its Hall of Fame.

The OVAC is the largest functioning conference in the nation. It is also one of the finest.

The OVAC Hall of Fame — headquartered at Wheeling’s WesBanco Arena — was initiated to pay tribute to its glorious and tradition-rich past.

And what a past it is.

The OVAC has been in existence for more than seven decades. During that time, the conference has played host to countless ultra-talented prep athletes. Many of whom went on to collegiate stardom and professional fame.

The OVAC Hall of Fame is more than just a shrine to honor athletes. The hall is totally encompassing. Not only are former athletes honored, they are joined by worthy coaches, media, officials and family members (those who serve the conference in selfless fashion).

The OVAC covers all bases.

Saturday night will feature the induction of 19 more individuals.

The latest class is an impressive one, much like its 11 predeccessors.

Gaining induction into the OVAC hall Saturday night will be: Brittany Hocker and Ted Talkington (2000s), Paul Hoover and Mike McLeod (1990s), Kelly Swierkos and Jamie Taylor (1980s), Rudy Jovicic and Janis Trupovnieks (1970s), Rick Nau and Ed Pastilong (1960s), Clyde Eads (St. Clairsville) and Gene Lamone (Wellsburg) (1950s), Sam Berry (1940s), George Kellas (Media), Ty Fleming and Rod Johnston (Coaches), Duane Powell (Officials), Dennis Magruder (Conference Contributor) and Linda Myers (OVAC Family).

It is an illustrious and well-deserving group of individuals. They will join more than 200 previous inductees in the OVAC Hall.

Their enshrinement is the crowning glory to remarkable contributions to the conference.

We salute Saturday’s latest additon of Hall of Famers. They are truly deserving of their tribute. We also commend the OVAC for being a conference that is concerned about not just the present and future, but also its sparkling past.