LIVE OAK, Fla. — Suwannee High seniors Justin Dalton, Rafael Martinez and Kendall Croft have earned college football scholarships. Martinez and Croft, both offensive linemen, and Dalton, a kicker/punter, signed with Warner University on Friday.  

“A lot of the success we’ve had has been because of these guys,” Suwannee coach Kyler Hall said at the signing. “All three of these guys have battled through injuries. To watch them push through and continue to play hard means a lot to myself, their teammates and the rest of the coaches. They’ve been leaders on the field.

“As an athlete this is always the day you work towards — to be able to sign a a scholarship, continue your education and continue to play this great game. I’m sure these young men are going to do great down at Warner and represent Suwannee County and Suwannee High very well.”

The strong-legged Dalton gave Suwannee an edge in special teams as a standout kicker and punter the past two seasons. Dalton’s big kickoffs, combined with his ability to angle the ball anywhere on the field, usually meant Suwannee was winning the field-position battle. He was also solid on extra points and field goals. 

It took a lot of individual work, during the season and offseason, and also some help from coaches for Dalton to get to the next level.    

“I practiced almost every day of the week,” said Dalton. “I want to thank coach Hall and coach (Dan) Marsee for helping me learn how to kick. They helped a lot for punting technique.

“We’re excited for Aug. 4 when we go down there. It’s nice having a couple guys from school so you can know somebody. We’re going to try and room together.”

Martinez and Croft were part of Suwannee’s impressive offensive line that led to some big rushing numbers the past two seasons. Croft thought practicing against some of those good lineman helped elevate his game. He’s excited to continue his career alongside Martinez and also reunite with 2017 SHS grad Preston Hicks at Warner.  

“We liked to have competitions with each other,” Croft said of his battles with other Suwannee O-lineman. “I’m going to miss going to practice with them. Going to the next level and being with a couple of them really helps.”

Martinez, who also saw time on the defensive line, said college football started becoming a reality in the middle of his junior season. Hall spoke highly of his work ethic.   

“When you look at Raf and watch him play, it’s one of those guys that you want on your side of the ball,” Hall said. “Whether its on the offensive line or defensive line, he’s always noticed because he plays very hard every play.”