Eric Sparks Says He Was Misled

Eric Sparks, whose older brother is the chief witness in the Southern Section’s case against Montclair Prep, has recanted much of his testimony against the school, claiming that he was misled by his brother and now believes Montclair Prep no longer deserves to be punished.

Eric Sparks, 27, a former assistant football coach at Montclair Prep, told Southern Section officials that he was duped by Jerome Sparks into believing that Montclair Prep had mistreated their nephews, Derek and Leland Sparks, former football players for the Mounties.

Sparks’ reversal came during a 5 1/2-hour meeting Thursday between officials from the Southern Section and Montclair Prep, which is seeking a reduction in penalties leveled against the school.

Attorneys from each side have agreed to continue negotiations Monday. Next Friday, the school will seek a preliminary injunction in an effort to stay the penalties.

Montclair Prep was banned from postseason play in all sports for the 1991-92 school year, and the football team was barred from the playoffs for two seasons.