PAFA Volunteers Receive Dick Butkus Foundation ‘Legacy Award’

Longtime Palatine Amateur Football Association (PAFA) volunteers, Coach Mike Spedale and former administrative head/Team Mom Tanya Tyska were honored for their years of service by receiving the ‘Butkus Chicago Youth Sports Legacy Award’ from the Dick Butkus Foundation. The two attended an exclusive event to accept the awards on August 6, 2019 in Chicago.

The Legacy Award recognizes individuals who devote their time and energy to organizations like PAFA, that further the love of youth sports by supporting and encouraging young people to participate.

Tyska is the former head of administration for PAFA, and prior to that served as a Team Mom for several years. Spedale has coached for 17 years, and served on the executive board before becoming the PAFA president for the 2017 and 2018 seasons.

“PAFA is a great organization with a long and successful history-more than 50 years,” Tyska said. “It was a honor to accept this award on behalf of PAFA past and present leaders, and volunteers who have led this organization with purpose and passion. All of these individuals are working to make youth football a fun and rewarding experience for thousands of youth athletes.”

Spedale said the award came as a complete surprise. "It's humbling to receive an award like this, and entirely unexpected. Above all, it takes a great team effort to lead an organization like this, and I am truly grateful to everyone who has chosen PAFA; from the players, to the families, to those who are giving of their time and talents to make this a great experience for our football family."

The mission of PAFA is to develop great student athletes, while also focusing on character and teamwork, in addition to encouraging achievement in academics.

“We've been fortunate to have great leaders before us who set a strong foundation; I’m proud to see that continuing forward with the current PAFA board, coaches and volunteers,” Spedale added.

Over the last few years, the Butkus Foundation has partnered with Chicago area athletic and sports organizations to honor coaches and volunteers in the Chicago region. The goal of the Legacy Award program is to recognize individuals who are making valuable investments in the next generation of youth sports—something that Spedale and Tyska have truly excelled at, on behalf of PAFA.

For more information about PAFA, visit palatinepanthers.com.