The legal team at BenGlassLaw has announced that Sydney Lojek is the recipient of the 2026 BenGlassLaw Referee and Umpire Leadership Scholarship. This $2,500 award will support Lojek as she begins her studies at Northwestern University. The scholarship is designed to honor students with referee experience who have applied that experience in innovative ways within professional environments.
Lojek distinguished herself by addressing a local soccer referee shortage, stepping up to fill a critical need in her community. Through this effort, she honed mentorship and leadership skills that have made her an exceptional young referee. Her dedication and proactive approach impressed the BenGlassLaw team, underscoring the firm's belief that community involvement and support for young athletes can significantly shape a person's professional trajectory.
Looking ahead, Lojek intends to continue officiating during her college years. She has already explored youth soccer leagues in Evanston, Illinois, and is eager to mentor a new generation of athletes, helping them build confidence on the field. As an incoming freshman, she plans to balance her community involvement with her academic pursuits. While she has not yet declared a major, she is considering economics, legal studies, and the pre-medical track at Northwestern.
Refereeing has been a transformative experience for Lojek, who says, "Refereeing has been such a huge part of my life that I cannot imagine simply stopping when I go to college." Her passion for the sport and her commitment to service are evident in her plans to stay engaged with soccer while supporting other aspiring athletes.
The personal injury and disability lawyers at BenGlassLaw extend their best wishes to Lojek as she embarks on her collegiate journey. They are confident that she will continue to be a valuable asset to the communities she serves, carrying forward the leadership and responsibility that refereeing has instilled in her.
Ben Glass, the founder of BenGlassLaw, brings a unique perspective to this scholarship. With over 51 years of experience refereeing youth and high school soccer, he officiates approximately 50 games each year, staying connected to a sport that has shaped his views on leadership and handling pressure. He is passionate about mentoring young referees and authored YOU, A Teenage Soccer Referee to share practical advice from his decades on the field. Through this scholarship, he aims to further support the next generation of referees.
BenGlassLaw, a Northern Virginia-based law firm, is dedicated to helping individuals stand up to powerful insurance companies. With extensive experience in personal injury, auto accident, and long-term disability claims, the firm's lawyers work to secure fair compensation and guide clients through complex legal processes. This scholarship reflects the firm's commitment to fostering leadership and community service among young people.
