Seniors Colton Baechle and Lucas Shinkle played football for the Paoli Rams throughout their junior high and high school careers. During their senior year, the two players have shown interest in continuing their football careers. They have looked into multiple colleges and went on campus visits, but have just recently decided to commit to play sprint football at Oakland City University.

Former coach Neil Dittmer has coached these two players for four years.

“I think it’s amazing they want to continue playing football in ways they can. It should be a great opportunity, and I hope they continue to do good things,” said Dittmer. 

For those who do not know, sprint football is played the same as normal American football, except that all players must weigh 178 pounds or less, making for a faster-paced game focused on agility rather than brute strength. Baechle was an offensive wide receiver and also a defensive back. Shinkle played both offensive and defensive line positions for the Rams; however, he has high hopes of playing tight end on offense. 

Baechle plans to study criminal justice in addition to playing football. 

“I wanted to go because I learned they pay for over half your college tuition, and I will be able to play the sport I love,” said Baechle. 

Shinkle plans to study sport administration.

“I think sprint football will be a great experience and will allow me to have fun continuing my football career. I’ve had a big passion for football since I was a kid,” said Shinkle. 

They will both start their college football careers on September 12 against Bellarmine University.