Former Lee University men’s soccer standout Joe Connor (2004-07) is following in his families’ footsteps as a midfielder for the Stockport County Hatters (England) club. Connor was recently named the winner of the Blue Square Premier Player of the Year at the North West Football Awards.
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Joe faced stiff competition for the award, including the free-scoring Damian Reeves, who was top scorer in the top six tiers of English football last season with 44 goals.
The star-studded ceremony, hosted by BBC sports reporter Dan Walker, took place at Old Trafford, Lancashire CCC and celebrated the achievements of clubs and individuals based in the region throughout the last 12 months. It featured a whole of host of famous footballing names, including Patrick Vieira, David Moyes and Roberto Martinez.

The Hatters have previously picked up awards in 2010 for Best Marketing Campaign and in 2007 when Ashley Williams was chosen as League 2 Player of the Year.

Stockport-born Joe is the grandson of County's all-time top scorer, Jack Connor. His County connections don't end there - his father Jim appeared for the Hatters in the late '70s, and his uncles Joe Connor and Patrick Whelan were also on County's books (another uncle, Phil Whelan, played for Ipswich and Middlesbrough).

Connor joined the Hatters in December 2011, initially on non-contract terms. He had previously played in the United States, moving there at the age of 18 and playing for Lee University. Joe then turned professional with Charlotte Eagles in 2008. His commanding performances in both the middle of the park and the defense saw Connor named as captain for 2012-13.