A serious injury two years ago in the season opener vs Bellwood almost ended Andrew Hockenberry’s football career.

“Last season was going to be a big season for me, but in the last minute of the first game of the season I tore my meniscus and ACL from the bone, destroying my chances on making an impact for the team,” said Hockenberry,  “but through hard work and a lot of rehab I came back this season better and stronger.”

Hockenberry not only rebounded from the injury, his contributions to the team this season impressed the coaches at Lock Haven enough to give the 6’2 272 pounder a chance on their roster next fall.

“I chose Lock Haven because its a good football program and a great campus” said Hockenberry. “Their weight facility is huge and the environment there is amazing. The coaching staff is friendly and they know what they’re doing.”

When Hockenberry visited their campus in the fall the coaches told him that he would get a chance on the team if he dedicates himself to training.

Hockenberry plans to hit the weight room hard this offseason and get as conditioned as possible before next fall. He hopes to earn a spot at defensive tackle for the Bald Eagles.

“I always dreamed of playing college football since I was little, but my dream never seemed possible until this season when I really started to play more,” said Hockenberry.

“It will be a big change jumping from high school football to college, but I think that I can handle it,” added Hockenberry.

Luckily he will also get some good advice from a familiar face: 2013 Tyrone grad Ryan Fink is currently a member of the Lock Haven football team.

“It’s a big help seeing one of my former teammates and friends start for a college football program.  Ryan believing that I can do it really helps me put forth the effort and dedication to get it done,” said Hockenberry.

Academically Hockenberry plans to major in sports administration.

“I chose this field because I wanted to stay as close to sports and football as I could throughout my whole life,” said Hockenberry.