Saquon Barkley was known for piling up yards as a running back for the Zephyrs, and now the senior is piling up hardware as result of his stellar season on the gridiron.

He was among Pennsylvania's top high school football players who were honored at the Mr. PA Football banquet at the Radisson Hotel in Harrisburg, PA. on Feb. 21.

Barkley was voted the winner of the Mr. PA Football Award for Classes 3A and 4A at the annual banquet that featured six players from both classifications. Barkley, a Penn State recruit, was selected over four other finalists in voting by fans, media and coaches.

The Mr. PA. Football Awards is in its fifth year, and this year's finalists included Jordan Whitehead (Central Valley High School), Andre Robinson (Bishop McDevitt High School), Ben DiNucci (Pine-Richland High School) and Jon Runyan, Jr. (St. Joseph's Prep).

He was presented his award by Penn State head coach James Franklin, the man he'll be playing for this fall as a member of the Nittany Lions.

"That made it even better," said Barkley, noting that the nominees included another Penn State running back recruit in Robinson. "He was also pretty happy having two running backs coming in who were up for Mr. PA Football."

Barkley rushed for 1,856 yards last season, including 29 touchdowns, permanently installing himself in the Whitehall record books. The senior also showcased his versatility by adding two more TDs on special teams.

South Williamsport running back Dominick Bragalone, a Lehigh recruit, was chosen as the Mr. PA Football Award winner for Classes 2A and A. He ran for a whopping Pennsylvania single-season record 4,717 yards, leading South Williamsport to the PIAA Class A semifinals.

Barkley, who is the first football player from Whitehall to win the prestigious award, said he was up against some great competition which made the honor all the more special. It also put a well-deserved exclamation point on an outstanding season.

"It was a great way to end my high school career," said Barkley. "I've been so honored and so blessed by everyone around me, the whole community, my teammates, everyone associated with Whitehall football."

Barkley will now concentrate on track and field this spring. The senior plans to participate in the sprints as well as the jumps. He said it will help him increase his speed and explosiveness, something he wants to strengthen as he prepares for the next level.