Whitehall senior Carter Troxell didn’t have the season he expected, but he will have plenty of lasting memories from the Zephyrs’ season that recently ended in a 22-17 loss to East Stroudsburg South in the District 11 Class 5A championship.

Troxell was the team’s leading rusher in the team’s opening game until he tore a ligament that sidelined him for six games.

The Zephyrs entered the game as the two-time, defending district champions, defeating Southern Lehigh both years. Whitehall had a 10-3, halftime lead until East Stroudsburg South scored 13, third-quarter points to take the lead for good. East Stroudsburg South’s Charles Capers ran for 241 yards and scored two touchdowns.

Troxell had a bittersweet feeling about the game and its reality.

“Yea, it definitely is not a great feeling to lose the way we lost,” said Troxell, who did play from his linebacker spot. “But I’m happy with how we played and how I played as well.

“It has been hard, especially now thinking about how the guys I played with since I was five are no longer my teammates in my favorite sport. I definitely did not envision this season going the way it did for me. But I am happy I was able to play with my guys at the end.”

The Zephyrs finished the season at 5-7, winning three of their last four. Head coach Andy Marino knows the team will need to retool in some ways.

“We played with the effort, physicality, and the discipline to put us in position to win,” said Marino. “ESS executed at a slightly higher level. Our team became a better team on and off the field as the season went on.

“We have to start over to build the 2025 team.”

Troxell has plenty of memories.

“Whitehall football has been a profound part of my life,” added Troxell. “I am beyond grateful for all the coaches and trainers that have helped me throughout my career.”

FINAL NUMBERS: Sophomore quarterback Tanner Dogmanits completed 129 of 201 attempts for 1,562 yards with eight touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Dogmanits also was the team’s leading rusher with 338 yards with seven touchdowns. Brother, junior Talon, caught 52 passes for 848 yards with six touchdowns., Adam Youwakim led the team in tackles with 61. Cole Richards converted all eight field goal attempts.