Michigan State names Kenny Soares Jr. first 'Spartan' and No. 1 jersey holder
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 12:43 AM
Last updated Aug 7, 2026
Michigan State football has named Kenny Soares Jr. the first player to hold the title 'The Spartan' and wear the No. 1 jersey for the upcoming season, as announced on August 7, 2026. Soares, a graduate transfer who previously played at Northwestern and NC State, was selected by team vote for embodying what it means to be a Spartan. His appointment signals a new tradition instigated by head coach Pat Fitzgerald, emphasizing respect from teammates and coaches in just a short time with the program.
- •Kenny Soares Jr. is the first to wear the No. 1 jersey.
- •The title 'The Spartan' is awarded based on team vote.
- •Soares has previously played at Northwestern and NC State.
- •The new tradition is spearheaded by head coach Pat Fitzgerald.
- •Soares is recognized for his embodiment of Spartan values.
- 12:43 AMYahoo Sports — Michigan State football EDGE named 'The Spartan', earns No. 1 jersey
"Michigan State football has officially selected the first player to be named 'The Spartan'
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- College Sports•Aug 7, 2026, 1:53 AMFlorida State transfer SF Chauncey Wiggins commits to Gonzaga after judge’s order
- NCAAF•Aug 7, 2026, 1:13 AMUSC offensive line must adjust with Kilian O’Connor out for the season
College Sports•Aug 7, 2026, 1:06 AMNo. 14 USC loses starting center Kilian O'Connor to season-ending knee injury in practice
College SportsNCAAF•Aug 7, 2026, 1:05 AMCollege football: Miami opens fall camp with eyes on another MAC title run- College Sports•Aug 7, 2026, 1:00 AMUNC's top pass-rusher nominated for prestigious defensive award
NCAAF•Aug 7, 2026, 12:41 AMOur audience challenged us to a fantasy football mock draft
