Topeka Teen Officially Changes Last Name To Dad’s One Week Before 13th Birthday After Middle School Football Moment

A boy's long-held wish becomes reality

January 18, 2026

This article was last updated by Sangita Budhathoki on January 19, 2026

Dayton, a 12-year-old from Topeka, officially changed his last name to ‘Dayton Dee VanSickle-DeClerck’ match his dad’s (Isaiah DeClerck) just before turning 13.

He had been asking to change his last name since he was 7 or 8 years old.

The turning point came during his first middle school football championship game, when hearing his name called out on the field made him realize how much it mattered

A few days later, she filed the papers, and the court approved it.

Find Out More: Magnolia Middle School Students Targeted with Racist Slurs During Bel-Air Basketball Game in Harford County.

Mom, When Are You Going to Let Me Change My Last Name?’ Teen Finally Gets Wish Before 13th Birthday

His mom, Breana DeClerck, shared the story on Facebook, explaining how Dayton had wanted this for years and how she waited until he was old enough to understand the choice.

She described the football game moment and how proud she was of him.

Breana ended her post by celebrating his new name, looking forward to his birthday trip, and thanking everyone who supported them.

People reacted warmly to Breana’s post, sharing their perspectives and heartfelt congratulations.

One person reacted with love and excitement, saying,

That’s dope fam! Congratulations to you and Dayton! Yall know it’s all love this way. Watching these boys grow to become men is a big accomplishment from where we came from! 💪🏼

Another shared their point of view, saying,

🥹THIS! it makes everything all worth it. I’m so happy for your family. this is so sweet.

The above post shows both a mother’s pride and the importance of letting children make meaningful choices when they are ready.

Explore Further: Ohio Basketball Team Manager With Disability, Denied Team Van Despite Following All Rules to Earn Varsity Letter!

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Sangita is a passionate blogger with a keen eye for covering recent and trending news, particularly in the world of sports. Her love for travel and nature fuels her writing, adding a vibrant and refreshing perspective to her work. When she's not chasing the latest headlines, Sangita can be found exploring new destinations, capturing the beauty of nature, and sharing her adventures with her audience. Her unique blend of interests and expertise makes her blog a go-to source for both news enthusiasts and fellow travelers.

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