13-year-old nominated for Youth Athlete of the Year

Benny Parnitzke has been nominated for Youth Athlete of the Year, a nationwide competition recognizing young athletes for their accomplishments, dedication and passion for sports. The 13-year-old soccer captain and football kicker for the Tinley Park Bulldogs learned about the honor from an unexpected source: his soccer coaches.

“It means a lot,” Benny said. “It’s really cool that my soccer coaches nominated me. Winning would also help me with my kicking training and help me get better at football.”

Benny is captain of the U14 Orland Park Sting FC soccer team, which recently returned from the US Youth Soccer President’s Cup after finishing third in the nation in its age group. On the football field, he is the kicker for the Tinley Park Bulldogs, a team that has reached the Super Bowl three times in the past four years.

His father, Palos Heights Deputy Police Chief John Parnitzke, said Benny’s leadership is what makes the nomination especially meaningful.

“I think Benny represents what this title is all about,” John Parnitzke said. “He is a natural leader on his teams, and is the kind of kid that knows when to offer an extra high five or word of encouragement when needed.”

That leadership has been recognized by others. Benny was nominated for a leadership award last year by members of his soccer club.

“As a father, that is most important,” John Parnitzke said.

Benny’s athletic accomplishments are impressive, but his family said the way he treats his teammates matters just as much.

The Youth Athlete of the Year competition offers Benny a chance to build on both his athletic and leadership accomplishments. The winner will receive $25,000, along with the opportunity to be featured in a 3BRAND advertisement in Sports Illustrated and become a brand ambassador for 3BRAND, the apparel company founded by NFL quarterback Russell Wilson.

A win also could help Benny continue developing his skills as a kicker.

“Winning the prize would just allow some doors to be opened to further his talents,” his father said.

Voting runs Aug. 17 through Aug. 27. Supporters can cast a free daily vote for Benny by scanning the QR code below.

Benny has already learned that success takes commitment. Now, he has an opportunity to see where that commitment can take him.