The legal team at BenGlassLaw has announced that Sydney Lojek is the recipient of the 2026 BenGlassLaw Referee and Umpire Leadership Scholarship. Lojek will receive $2,500 in financial support as she prepares to begin her studies at Northwestern University. This scholarship is designed to honor students with referee experience who have found innovative ways to apply that experience in a professional setting, highlighting the value of leadership and community engagement.
Lojek's journey to this recognition began when she stepped up to address a local soccer referee shortage. By volunteering her time, she not only helped fill a critical need but also developed mentorship and leadership skills that have set her apart. Her dedication to the sport and her community impressed the selection committee, reflecting the firm's belief that commitment to community and young athletes can significantly shape a young person's professional trajectory.
Currently an exceptional young soccer referee, Lojek plans to continue officiating during her college career. She has already researched youth soccer leagues in Evanston, Illinois, and looks forward to helping a new generation of athletes gain confidence on the field. As an incoming college student, she intends to balance her community service with her academic pursuits. While she remains undecided on a major, she has expressed interest in economics, legal studies, and Northwestern's pre-medical track.
In conversations, Lojek comes across as a community-centered young woman who wishes to remain involved in soccer while serving other up-and-coming athletes. "Refereeing has been such a huge part of my life that I cannot imagine simply stopping when I go to college," she said. Her passion for the game and her commitment to giving back are evident in her actions and words.
The personal injury and disability lawyers at BenGlassLaw extend their best wishes to Lojek as she embarks on her collegiate journey. They have no doubt that she will continue to be an asset to the communities she serves. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also recognizes the important role that referees play in sports and community development.
Ben Glass, the founder of BenGlassLaw, has over 51 years of experience refereeing youth and high school soccer. Officiating around 50 games a year, he remains closely connected to the sport that has shaped his views on leadership, responsibility, and handling pressure. Passionate about guiding the next generation, he mentors young referees and authored "YOU, A Teenage Soccer Referee" to offer practical advice from his decades on the field. This scholarship is an extension of his commitment to supporting young officials.
BenGlassLaw is a Northern Virginia-based law firm dedicated to helping individuals stand up to powerful insurance companies. With decades of experience in personal injury, auto accident, and long-term disability claims, the team fights to secure fair compensation and guide clients through complex legal processes. The lawyers at BenGlassLaw are committed to protecting clients' rights and helping them move forward with confidence. For more information about the scholarship and the firm's initiatives, visit their official website.
