For Dalton Wickel, his journey to Whitehall’s lead running back has been a long one.

The senior started playing the sport at the age of four in flag football, and then moved to the Hokendauqua football program. That began his ride to the role he had this past season as Whitehall’s running back.

Wickel was also among the team leaders in tackles.

“He has done a nice job for us,” said Whitehall head coach Andy Marino earlier this season. “Dalton worked hard during the summer, and he was ready to step into his role.

“He emerged during the summer, and had the potential to have a productive season.”

After playing at Hokendauqua, Wickel began in the Bethlehem Catholic Junior Hawks program until eighth grade.

One of his fondest football memories was in eighth grade when he was comfortable with his game and also was part of a championship team.

“In eighth grade, I felt I had everything together, but I know I still have a lot to improve on and fix in my game,” he said. “We won the championship, and I had the winning touchdown. That will always be one of my favorite games.”

Wickel primarily has played the running back role, but he also played at linebacker and on the line. He didn’t have much playing time during his sophomore and junior years, but he looked forward to his senior season, one that eventually led to a District 11 5A title.

Wickel also has made a smooth transition with the new coaching staff.

“I am hoping to keep playing [well] and help the team the rest of the season,” he said earlier this year. “The transition [was] really good. Coach Marino and all the new coaches really brought a lot of college experience and knowledge to the team and I feel it has made us a better overall team and makes us compete with any team in our league.

“I [felt] I could be a leader and help make our team better along with Kaden Weaver and Trey Dogmanits. I’m very comfortable with that role this year.”

Wickel plans to major in engineering and minor in film study. He would like to play football in college.

“I have loved football since day one,” he said. “I’ve made so many memories throughout the years.”

Winning another District 11 title this year was certainly another one.