Stratford High School (SHS) quarterback Aaron Deleon and safety Parker Johnson represented Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) as finalists for the prestigious Houston Touchdown Club Player of the Year Awards on Dec. 11, for offense and defense, respectively, capping off a standout season for the Spartans.

The Spartans, who finished with an 8-4 record, advanced to the regional round of the UIL 6A Division II state championship, propelled by the stellar performances of their senior leaders.

Deleon, the 17-6A Offensive MVP, showcased his dual-threat abilities throughout the season. He threw for 2,189 yards with 19 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 876 yards and 14 touchdowns, amassing a total of 3,065 yards and 33 scores. His career totals include 6,923 total yards and 87 touchdowns.

Deleon, who thanked his family and Jesus Christ for supporting him and providing the opportunity to play football, is still undecided on his collegiate football future.

“Being here around all these fantastic athletes shows how much work you have to put in to get to this level,” Deleon said. “I’m honored to be here. It’s rewarding and fun to be recognized as one of the best football players in Houston.”

On the defensive side, Johnson, a 17-6A First-Team All-District defensive back, anchored the Stratford defense with a state-leading 10 interceptions (MaxPreps), including two returned for touchdowns. Johnson recorded 156 tackles, eight tackles for loss, one sack, and seven pass breakups while forcing two fumbles. He was also named Built Ford Tough Player of the Week during a dominant Week 10 performance.

“It took years to get here. Not just the effort put in on the field, but also the mental aspect,” Johnson said. “It starts with how I was raised. I thank my parents so much for making me the athlete that I am today. When it all translates on the field, it’s a cool feeling.”

Both Deleon and Johnson excel academically, earning 17-6A Academic All-District honors throughout their high school careers. Johnson, a valedictorian candidate at Stratford, plans to continue his academic and athletic career at the Colorado School of Mines.

The recognition as finalists solidifies Deleon and Johnson’s impact on Stratford’s successful season.

“To see two of our seniors make it to this point at such a special event, and to watch what the coaching staff invested in all of these players come together, is very special,” Stratford head coach Todd Rankin said. “This is an elite group of athletes represented here today, and I’m very excited to see our Stratford players be a part of that.”

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