Dawgs ready to hit gridiron in pandemic-shortened season

PHOTOS BY K. D. IMMLER | DGKN 

Dalton Bulldogs warm up for a new season and play in a closed scrimmage Friday against Streetsboro. The game was available livestreamed on YouTube via Dalton Local Schools. 

By ARIEL STAHLER
Gazette & News sports writer

After uncertainty swirled around whether there would be a fall sports season in 2020, teams received the green light from Gov. Mike DeWine on Aug. 18 to compete against other schools this season.

As Dalton High School’s varsity football team prepares for a shortened, six- game season, head coach Broc Dial said his team was not focusing on who the opponents would be.

“We have the philosophy we will play whoever they tell us to play,” he said.

Dial said the Dawgs have been preparing just as they would for any other season. The only difference is the introduction of COVID-19 safety protocols into the routine.

“Our administration created a plan for us to follow concerning COVID-19 protocols,” Dial said. “Our players have adjusted well with these new routines.”

Some of the safety protocols for this season include social distancing, the use of facial coverings, sanitizing and symptom assessment. There will also be limitations to the number of spectators allowed at the games.

Dalton’s goals for the season are the same as years past, according to Dial. They want to win the WCAL Championship, make the playoffs and win a state championship. Dial wants his team to work on improving consistency this season.

There are 13 seniors on the team. Dial said his seniors have been doing a great job of leading and he has no doubt that will continue into the season.

“We are really looking forward to the season, if possible, for these seniors,” he said. “All 13 are fantastic young men.”

The quarterback situation has Jaiden Malone in the starting slot.

“He has improved since camp and through the preseason,” said Dial regarding Malone.

“Jaiden’s decision making has improved steadily from camp to the preseason.”

The Dawgs are slated to kick off the season against Waynedale at home on Aug. 28. They will host Smithville on Sept. 4 before traveling to Ashland High School to take on Hillsdale Sept. 10. Dalton returns home Sept. 18 to host Northwestern. The Dawgs will have games at Rittman and Norwayne Sept. 25 and Oct. 2, respectively, to close out the season.

Follow Ariel on Twitter @AStahlerDGKNews