CWS 2026: West Virginia fans travel hundreds of miles for College World Series

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - West Virginia supporters traveled nearly 980 miles to watch their team play in the College World Series. Some drove through the night.

Long before game time, supporters packed Blatt Beer & Table. Many traveled hundreds of miles. Others booked their trip the moment West Virginia earned its spot in Omaha. Nearly everyone wore gold and blue.

“I’ve been a West Virginia fan all my life, all my family has been fans, multiple generations have been there, so I just grew up loving the teams and the sports and had to come out when they made the College World Series,” said Samuel Struthers, a West Virginia fan.

Fans filled tables and took photos. They counted down the hours until first pitch.

“This is a once in a lifetime here for us, it’s our first time here in Omaha. We drove in last night, got in at about 3AM, and took thirteen and a half hours. But it was totally worth it and we’re so excited,” said Megan Frappier, a West Virginia fan.

Pat McAfee, the West Virginia native and nationally syndicated sports personality, brought his show to Omaha.

“We are waiting for the Pat McAfee show, it starts at 11, we’ve been here since 7 this morning. It’s the Pat McAfee show, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Trevor Donley, a West Virginia fan.

Fans said the focus remained on supporting the Mountaineers.

“I’m just excited for all of Omaha to sing ‘Country Roads,’” Donley said.