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Lancer team wore game jerseys recognizing Jared Connor of Everett in recent matchup in Malden
By Steve Freker
One of Aaron Connor’s biggest fans through his years of playing sports has been his brother, Jared. Last week in a switch of roles, Aaron Connor and his Malden Catholic Baseball teammates recognized Jared Connor in a special way. In a game against Bishop Fenwick held at Howard Park in Malden, the Lancer baseball team wore special game jerseys emblazoned with “Jared #4” on the sleeve.
Aaron Connor is a sophomore catcher from Everett who is in his first season on the varsity baseball team, coached by Brian Blumsack, also in his first season at the helm at Malden Catholic. Aaron’s brother Jared has been living for many years with a rare genetic condition called Sanfilippo syndrome. The rare neurodegenerative disease has taken away his ability to walk and speak, But, for many years, he has inspired others to run or walk in “Jared’s Run,” which is held in Everett.
At the Malden Catholic game, this was another type of special recognition, as every member of the Malden Catholic Baseball team wore the specially made game jerseys, indicating their support for their teammate, Aaron, who also plays on the Lancer football team, and his brother.
In addition to his brother Aaron, grateful for the show of support for Jared are the two brothers’ parents, Richard and Reia Connor. Richard Connor is a longtime Everett Police Officer and his wife is the owner of Phunk Phenomenon Dance Studio in Everett as well as a former New England Patriots cheerleader.
For those with the disease, there is no cure and the life expectancy is 12 to 14 years old. Jared has been a marvel, having this year marked his 21st birthday.
“Our team really got behind this cause to support our Lancer player Aaron Connor and his brother Jared, it was great to see,” said Coach Blumsack. “It is an excellent way for Aaron’s teammates to show their support.
“Jared’s Run” is organized by Richard and Reia Connor and raises money for Sanfillipo syndrome research with the goal of giving kids like Jared an edge in the fight. This year’s event is planned for Saturday, October 10, starting at the Everett Recreation Center across from Glendale Park at 10:00 a.m. The event is supported by the City of Everett, Everett Recreation and the Everett Police Department.
