By Steve Svetovich
Dunmore senior fullback-middle line backer Jake Hickey is a big part of the Dunmore Bucks success story this season.
The hard-nosed senior was a big part of the Dunmore running attack that amassed 335 yards on 53 carries in the Bucks 41-25 win over Camp Hill in the PIAA Class 2A state quarterfinals Friday, November 24, at Dunmore. The senior fullback battered the Camp Hill front line with 75 yards on 17 carries on the bitter cold night.
Teammate Danny Pigga rushed for 194 yards on 17 carries, including touchdown runs from 32 and 29 yards. Jake was the lead blocker on most of the long runs.
But it was the Dunmore defense, highlighted by four interceptions, that sparked the win leading the Bucks into the state semi-finals against powerhouse Southern Columbia. Jack McNeff turned one of those interceptions into a 45-yard touchdown scamper for Dunmore with 7:05 left in the second quarter.
“We knew we had to hold down their passing attack,” Jake said. “Even if we are down a little bit, we are going to come back and play harder than ever. That’s Dunmore football.
“It’s been a dream of mine to play Southern Columbia. You always see them win championships.
“Our defense has been picking us up big. They have been coming up big with turnovers, stops and sacks ever since the Lackawanna Trail game.”
Son of Dave and Joanne Hickey, Dunmore, Jake has a 3.5 academic average at Dunmore. His best subject is history.
He talked about what it takes to excel at the middle linebacker position in high school football.
“You need to be smart and read and study the film. It slows down the game for you. Our coaches know how to put me in a good situation.”
Jake was used more as a blocking fullback earlier in the season, but has been carrying the ball much more since the playoffs began.
“We played a good part of the year with me as the blocking back. We switched up our offense since the Lackawanna Trail game and I’ve been getting a lot more carries since. I’m more involved in the offense.”
The confident, tough-minded senior talked about the success of the Dunmore football team this season.
“Ever since the loss in the district championship game to Lakeland last year, this team has been motivated. We got some experience against the bigger teams and we keep showing better and better team play. We are more vocal this year and work hard on every single play.”
The senior fullback-middle linebacker said he has learned a great deal from Dunmore football coach Kevin McHale.
“He teaches me to be a leader. He was a fullback, so he has really helped me a lot. He tells me to be vocal and teach. He taught me to be a role model to the younger guys. He tells us to play each down like it’s your last.”
Jake’s parents also taught him a lot.
“They tell me to be a good person and be respectful. Be nice to everyone. Work hard for what you want and always be on time.”
The strong-willed senior standout said he is not sure where he will attend college, but has a few ideas.
“I want to play fullback in college, do well, and see what I eventually do in life. I want to be successful.”
Jake said he enjoys playing pickup basketball in his spare time.
He is loving his experience at Dunmore as he moves forward in his senior year.
“I would not want to grow up anywhere else. Dunmore High School is the best. I grew up watching Jack Henzes win the big games. Now we are getting to play in big games with coach McHale. I love it. I have a lot of friends here in school.
“Dunmore is a great town. It’s like one big family. We all support each other.”