Sparta to be Represented on 2024 Eastern Offense-Defense All-American Team in Texas

SPARTA, NJ – A Sparta Youth Football player has been selected to be a member of the Eastern United States team in the All-American Game in Arlington, TX in December. Thirteen-year-old Connor McKernan caught the attention of the team’s organizers at the Offense-Defense All-American camp at Kean University this summer, according to his mother, Francesca McKernan.

Originally placed in his 12 to 13-year-old age group, on the second day of practice McKernan was moved up to the 14 to 18-year-old bracket. He continued to impress the coaches, earning the 2024 MVP in the 14 to 18-year-old group, even though he was 13.

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The MVP award earned him a slot on the East Coast team for the All-American Game.

McKernan has been playing football since the age of five. He began in the flag football program and moved to tackle in first grade.  McKernan usually plays int the running back and linebacker positions.

In addition to Sparta Youth Football, he plays baseball for the Morris County Club and the Sparta Cyclones and basketball for the Sparta PAL program.

In September, McKernan will be in the eighth grade.

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As a seventh grade student, McKernan was named Sparta Middle School Student of the Third Marking Period. Having earned that honor his guidance counselor Heather Yanoff said;

“Connor McKernan is a positive, hardworking student, and an incredible source of pride for the Diamond Team. This year he has grown into a student who exemplifies what it means to be a true learner. Connor is a kind and thoughtful classmate who adds insight to every discussion.
Unfailingly cheerful and open, he never hesitates to help others, always including and encouraging those around him. Connor is also an excellent athlete who brings his sense of commitment and teamwork not only to sports, but to the Diamond Team as well. These attributes make him a well- rounded scholar athlete that everyone can admire. Connor embodies budding leadership qualities that will serve him and those around him quite well.”

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