The third annual Merced County All-Star Football Classic unfolded on a crisp Saturday afternoon, pitting the South all-stars against their North counterparts in a tightly contested battle that ended with a 22-13 victory for the South.
Jones Leads a Offensive Surge
A.J. Jones, a standout receiver from the South squad, caught two touchdown passes, the most pivotal being a 58-yard strike in the fourth quarter that helped seal the win. His performance earned him the game's Most Valuable Player honor.
The contest also featured a girls' flag football showdown, where the North team edged out the South 24-21, adding another layer of excitement to the day's festivities.
Early in the game, Merced High's Haziell Reyes extended the South's lead with a 24-yard field goal, while the North responded with a 35-yard field goal in the third quarter that shifted momentum.
Later, quarterback Antonia LeJarde connected with Averie Steverson for a 28-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the gap to 24-21, and Steverson's defensive contributions, highlighted by two interceptions, underscored the competitive spirit of the all-star roster.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the game, Jones will continue his football career at Modesto Junior College, bringing his proven playmaking ability to the next level.
A Showcase of Local Talent
The all-star event gathered players from a dozen high schools across the county, including El Capitan, Atwater, Denair, Los Banos, Pitman, Hilmar, Buhach Colony, Ceres, Turlock, Patterson and Orestimba, showcasing the rich football tradition of the region.