Merrick Whiz Kid: Robert Rinck

This week, Merrick Patch's Whiz Kid is Robert Rinck.

• Name: Robert Rinck
  
• Age: 16
  
• School: Calhoun
  
• Accomplishment: Rinck is a scholar-athlete who has maintained a G.P.A. of more than 85; captain of the Calhoun football team; defensive MVP as a freshman on the J.V. team; All-Conference linebacker as a junior on the varsity team. Rinck starts both as a middle linebacker on defense as well as a center on offense.
• Key to Awesomeness: Rob always gives 110 percent in what he does, and it has resulted in many accolades for his achievements both on and off the field. Even when the nastiest of winter storms dump feet of snow on the football field, Rob is in the weight room, working hard towards next season’s goals. He also serves as a motivator and support system for his teammates, evidenced by his being named the captain of the J.V. team as a freshman, being promoted to the varsity team as a sophomore, and being named team captain of varsity as a junior. Coach Bianca, the varsity coach, has nothing but praise for Rob as both a player and a person. In addition, Calhoun principal, David Seinfield, recently commended Rob’s father on his son and how he helps combat bullying in school. Rob further proves that he is not simply a stereotypical jock; his hard work in academics has earned him the title of scholar-athlete as a junior.

Do you know a great kid? Submit your nomination in our comment box below or e-mail the information to Emily.Cappiello@Patch.com. Be sure to include all of the following information:

• Nominator's Name
• Nominator's E-Mail
• Whiz Kid's Name
• Whiz Kid's Age
• Whiz Kid's School
• Whiz Kid's Accomplishment
• Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness (what made him/her successful?)