Family tradition: The Sweeney’s have been united by football

Nov. 4—LEROY — Sometimes it’s difficult to be the little brother of a standout athlete, but other times it’s a blessing.

In the case of LeRoy-Ostrander/Lyle-Pacelli senior Carter Sweeney, it’s been an outstanding thing. Carter, who is a starting wide receiver and defensive back for the Cardinals, is the younger brother of Gavin Sweeney, who won a Class Nine Man state title with the Cardinals in 2021 and now plays Division II football at Upper Iowa University.

Ever since he became a Cardinal, Carter has been looking to make a name for himself and he’s done just that as he’s placed his name among the all-time leading receivers in program history.

“Everyone always knew me as Gavin’s little brother. There was always a chip on my shoulder and it’s still there,” Carter said. “I have to earn (people knowing) my first name and make sure that they remember my last name. That’s always been a big, big chip on my shoulder and I’ve always wanted to be better than him.”

Gavin started playing football in second grade and Carter was usually trying to keep up with him. By the time Gavin was kicking for the Cardinals in high school, Carter would hold for him and their dad Nick, who is an assistant coach for the team, would serve as the long snapper.

Last Christmas break, the Sweeney’s were reminiscing on their younger days together, but they were also talking about how Carter’s team could make it to state in his senior year. The Cardinals accomplished that goal on Friday and Gavin, who was watching the game from the crowd, couldn’t have been prouder of his little brother.

“It makes me really happy because I don’t want to say he’s in my shadow, but he’s been behind me forever and ever and it’s nice to see that he’s kind of doing his own thing and making his own legacy kind of like I did,” Gavin said. “I’m really happy to see that he’s…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/family-tradition-sweeneys-united-football-031600334.html

Author : Austin Daily Herald, Minn.

Publish date : 2024-11-05 03:16:00

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