Kinnelon Graduate Drafted By Tampa Bay Rays

native and 2007 graduate Sean Bierman was drafted to the Tampa Bay Rays Major League Baseball (MLB) team this week.

Kinnelon High School Athletic Director Scott Rosenberg said Wednesday Bierman was drafted in the 10th round Tuesday and was picked at 332.

"Sean Bierman was the prototype for a Division 1 athlete while at Kinnelon High School," Rosenberg said. "No matter what sport it was, once he stepped on the field or court, he was a standout."

Rosenberg said Bierman played soccer, basketball and baseball at Kinnelon. After high school, he went on to play baseball at the University of Tampa, where he had an 8-3 record during his senior season and had a 2.27 earned run average, according to the Tampa Spartan's website. Bierman was also twice named "Pitcher of the Year."

"He is a shining example of a three-sport athlete and the success that they can have. He absolutely bucked the trend of the one-sport athlete. Furthermore, he is a hometown boy. Although Sean faced pressure and recruitment to go to some of the top prep schools in the area, he decided he wanted to go to school with his friends. He knew that if he was good enough, he’d be seen by the Division 1 and pro scouts," Rosenberg said.

Rosenberg said Bierman's road to the MLB was not always smooth.

"Sean is a wonderful example of fighting through adversity. He has faced a number of injuries and surgery throughout his high school and collegiate career. He rehabbed and worked through these injuries and came back even stronger," he said. "We are so happy and excited for Sean and wish him the best of luck in the next step in his burgeoning career."