Chris Wellington will suit up for his final high school football game Thursday night when he plays for the St. Luke’s’ Hospital squad in the 55th Annual McDonald’s All-Star football game at Andrew S. Leh Stadium in Nazareth.

He’ll be joined by fellow recent graduates Trayshawn Dunn, Adam Kosciolek, Manny Bolmer, and Braeden Smith.

This past season, Wellington led the team in tackles with 69 (37 solo) from his linebacker position. He also has two sacks, a blocked punt, an interception, and six of his tackles were for losses.

He was the heart of the Rough Riders’ defense, leading them in tackles for the past two seasons.

Wellington will certainly miss his Catty playing days, but he will be playing for Lock Haven University next season.

“I am very excited about playing against the best athletes in the Valle, but also with them,” beamed Wellington. “Still, it stinks not being able to continue to play with the guys I grew up with. That’s the hardest part about it. But I’m ready for something new.”

Wellington will be playing inside linebacker for Lock Haven, which was an immediate fit for him. He plans to major in business there.

“Lock Haven is where I felt the most at home,” reflected Wellington. “I looked at around six or seven schools, but Lock Haven set themselves apart from the rest. I can see myself succeeding and growing in the program. I’ll play wherever they want me to play.”

Catty head coach Joe Henrich realized Wellington’s stance and presence on the team as well as his contributions.

“Chris Wellington is a wonderful young man,” boasted Henrich. “He is hard working, committed, and a great teammate. Chris was a major factor for this team on both sides of the ball.

“He led by example and proved to be invaluable with all that he did and accomplished. He will be a valuable asset for Lock Haven.”

Yet, Wellington will always have a chapter of his life in Catty. Helping to lead his team to the district playoffs with a win in their final regular-season game last year capped his final season.

“I think my favorite game this year was probably against Wilson,” recalled Wellington. “I had a bunch of tackles, a forced fumble and a blocked punt. The stands were alive, and I was having fun with the guys.

“It’s hard to remember just one thing that stands out to me about playing in Catty. I love this town so much, but I think making the district playoffs last year will forever be a part of me.”