By: Mary Kate Meals
Archbishop Carroll Senior Night, Who Is Person Behind Jersey No. 9
RADNOR, PA- Friday night lights, home field advantage and senior night set the scene for the Archbishop John Carroll football team Friday night. For senior defensive linebacker, Jaelen Parker, preparation for this day started months ago.
“I spent countless days working out, not sleeping, studying, and just being around the game of football,” said Parker.
When asked what he will miss most about Carroll, Parker giggled and mentioned summer camp.
“Waking up early in the morning, and having to fight through two a days with a sore body with your teammates is definitely something you will miss,” said Parker. “I’ve been here for four years. I love them to death. They are my brothers for life.”
Carroll vs. McDevitt Reporter Package by Mary Kate Meals:
This season, the Patriots played under new head coach, Kyle Detweiler. Entering the season with the expectation to be a leader on and off the field adds pressure, and forced the senior class to really step up.
“I was kind of skeptical but when he came in for that first meeting, it opened my eyes and I realized that this guy is here for us and he loves us,” said Parker.
When asked about Parker as a team leader, Detweiler had nothing but positive things to say.
“He got guys together over the summer to go over specific workouts,” said Detweiler. “Jaelen is a hard worker. He is always in the weight room or working out on his own with a personal trainer.”
Photos of No. 9 Jaelen Parker by Mary Kate Meals
Obviously a leader on and off the field, Detweiler mentioned the impact Parker has on his teammates.
“He is always the guy that you can rely on. We look at him as a spark plug to keep us going when times are tough,” said Detweiler. “He is one of the guys a lot of our young guys look up to because he is one of our best athletes.”
Coach Detweiler told the team to play this game for the seniors and that’s exactly what they did. Teammates were coaching teammates and senior defensive leader Jaelen Parker had time to shine on the field.
“It feels awesome to have the coaches trust me,” said Parker.
Unfortunately, the Patriots fell to the Lancers 14-28, but are keeping an open mind for their ‘revenge’ playoff game versus Monsignor Bonner next week. For senior Jaelen Parker, his sights are set on playing at the next level as he intends to “ball out” the remainder of the season.