Darold was a Runningback for the Grapeland Sandies football team and with his help, in the 1974-1975 season Grapeland won the Class 1A State Championship when they edged out Aledo 19-18.

In 1974 he led the state of Texas in interceptions with 15 total on the season.

In 1975 he was 4th in the state of Texas in rushing yards with over 4,000 on the season.

He was named an All-State defensive back and upon his graduation from GHS, he signed to play football with the Southern Methodist University Mustangs as a linebacker.

While at SMU he lettered both in 1978 and 1979.