Glastonbury Hartwell Soccer 2015 Scholarship Winners

A huge congratulations to our 2015 Scholarship Winners! We are very proud to announce that this year’s Hartwell scholarships were presented to Mimi Benkousas and Katie Charla for their support and contributions to our Hartwell soccer community. In addition, the CJSA Central District Scholarship was given to Sam Wadleigh who has also contributed significantly to our Glastonbury soccer community. While all have been longtime soccer “players”, they were recognized primarily for their contributions OFF the field. All three have given back to the sport, club and our community in significant ways.

Mimi Bernkousas: When Mimi moved to Glastonbury as a preschooler she spoke only Algerian and French and her start with Hartwell helped her make friends in a new community and quickly learn English. Since that time she has done so much to give back in recognition of the fond memories she has had playing soccer. Mimi has coached girls recreational teams for three years both fall and spring - a significant commitment both in time and effort. Mimi has contributed almost 500 hours in community service in her high school career. She is a remarkable young lady who has truly given back in a very impressive way.

Katie Charla: Katie has a love of soccer that has also sparked her love of coaching. She signed up to get her coaching license and showed significant promise from the start. She has coached throughout high school as recreational coach for 3rd graders, and assistant coach for our competitive teams – 8 year olds and 10 year old girls. This has been a significant time commitment but she has brought much energy to her teams. The girls have appreciated a strong role model and have seen how she gives back to the community in other ways as well. She is a familiar face and worker in many events - tournaments, festivals and fundraisers - taking on multiple capacities. In addition, she has been a committed referee.

Sam Wadleigh: Sam Wadleigh received the Connecticut Junior Soccer League Central Scholarship representing not only Glastonbury but a broader community of players across the state. Sam started out as an assistant coach with young recreational teams. However, Sam has also supported Hartwell Soccer in about every capacity possible – from hanging soccer nets around town, selling food and goods at fundraisers, assistant coaching for recreational teams and serving as a frequent referee. His commitment is obvious, always willing to help out and lend a helping hand with a smile !

All of these scholarship recipients have also achieved very impressive academic records and been involved and have volunteered in many other capacities in our community – school, churches, other sports programs. We thank you for your commitment and your efforts from the heart to grow and give back to your community.