Saint Stephen’s is known for academic prowess, and that’s how it should be. The school has been recognized for decades as one of the top academic institutions in the state.

But in addition to the school’s incredible academic track record, the Falcons have had remarkable success athletically, especially in recent years. 

Student-athletes at Saint Stephens have, over time, had the opportunity to compete for State Championships and get recruited to play sports at the next level in college, and further their academic and athletic careers. 

Sydney Brown is a perfect example of how successful Saint Stephen’s students can be at the next level. Brown, a 2018 Saint Stephen’s graduate, now plays football for the University of Illinois. In his first two years at Illinois Brown has started 19 games for the Illini at safety. In the process, Brown has recorded 135 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 9 pass breakups. He is, in all senses of the word, a breakout player for the team.

Brown said, “As a student athlete at the University of Illinois I’ve been able to stay ahead in the classroom, giving me more time to focus on watching film and training which has helped me to perform at an elite level on the field. The time I spent at Saint Stephen’s during my Junior and Senior years taught me the skills I needed to be successful as a student-athlete in the Big Ten.” 

On November 9th, the Fighting Illini were trailing Michigan State by 25 points and they needed a spark. Brown was the man for the job when they needed to mount that comeback. In the win Brown, recorded 13 tackles and 2 interceptions (1 for a touchdown); for his efforts in the game Brown, was named Big Ten player of the week. 

Brown was recently named 3rd team all-defense for the Big Ten conference as a true sophomore, a truly impressive accomplishment.

Brown said, “I wouldn’t be in the position I am today if it wasn’t for the time I spent at Saint Stephen’s. I owe a lot to all the teachers and coaches at Saint Stephen’s who helped get me to where I am at. I will always be a Falcon.”

Who will be the next Falcon to make it at the college level?  We look forward to finding out.