Sportsbeat Top 10: Bishop Guilfoyle OL Joe Eckenrode

ALTOONA (WTAJ) — Few high school players get to experience the thrill of a state title. It’s a select group that truly understands the work it takes to improve every day and rise above every other team. This latest Sportsbeat Top 10 athlete Joe Eckenrode is one of the few.

“He still talks about his catches from freshman year,” Bishop Guilfoyle head coach Justin Wheeler said. “(He) said he never dropped a pass in a game.”

Eckenrode was an integral part of Bishop Guilfoyle’s 2021 title. A blossoming freshman, he was already one of the best blockers in the Marauders’ locker room and coach Justin Wheeler knew they wanted him on the field. A move to tight end gave BG a sixth linemen on the field.

“We look back at that year and think that was one of the moves that we made, that really helped us win a state championship,” Wheeler said. “He gave us the blocking threat out on the perimeter that we really needed. “

Eckenrode has twice been named all-state. In 2022 he was named as a defensive nose guard and last season an offensive tackle. His blocking ability is what will likely continue his career at the next level. It’s one of the things he takes most pride in.

“Being able to give the block you need in the tough situations, and being able to finish on the goal line to punch it in in those short yardage downs,” he said.

Eckenrode is scheduled to continue playing tackle for Bishop Guilfoyle, but at 6-foot-2-inches, 270 pounds, Wheeler recognizes he’ll have to play inside to compete at the highest level of college ball. Last year the team shuffled Carter Sheehan inside for the exact same reason and landed him a spot at Temple.

“We’re hoping this season that when people leave the stadium on a Friday night or Saturday night, they’re talking about big (number) 76, and the kid that just dominated both offensively and defensively.”

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However, like many of the best team leaders in high school, Joe will tell you none of that individual success matters, if the team comes up short on its season-long goals. This fall Guilfoyle slots back into 1A and it most definitely carries a “championship or bust” mentality.

“I want to be one of the leaders on the team when I do it. I mean, it’s my last year, so another all-state, another district championship, another state championship would be great” he said.

“He’s been our go-to guy for four years now, and he’s going to be it’s going to be an exciting senior season,” Wheeler added.

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