Matt Lerner, a 6-foot-2, 240-pound junior defensive lineman from Hartford, Wis., (Union), has been named to the Verizon Academic All-District V College Division football second team.

With one game left, Lerner leads the team in sacks (5.5) and tackles for loss (13); is tied for the team lead in fumble recoveries (2); and is third on the team in tackles (53).

"Matt is a tremendous athlete," said coach Steve Bell. "Obviously he has his priorities where they should be and that is on academics. It’s nice to have him on our team. He represents our team admirably."

The history major is the third Monmouth athlete this year to receive such an award. Last spring, Amber Kuhrts was named to the Verizon Academic All-District V College Division women’s basketball first team, while Jeff Stenoish was selected to the men’s basketball second team.

The Verizon Academic All-District V team is voted on by sports information directors from the district which includes four states and two Canadian provinces. To be eligible for the award, an athlete must meet minimum grade point requirements, have legitimate athletic credentials and be a starter or important reserve while reaching at least sophomore status.

Monmouth College was the only Midwest Conference school to have a player named to the team.

Lerner is the son of David and Christine Lerner of Hartford, Wis.