Fairfax, VA – BenGlassLaw, a Northern Virginia personal injury and disability law firm, proudly announces Sydney Lojek as the winner of the 2026 BenGlassLaw Referee and Umpire Leadership Scholarship. The $2,500 scholarship recognizes students with referee experience who creatively apply their skills in professional environments. Lojek, an incoming freshman at Northwestern University, demonstrated outstanding initiative by helping to resolve a local soccer referee shortage, showcasing the mentorship and leadership abilities that impressed the selection committee.
“Sydney’s determination and community spirit truly embody the values we aim to support,” said Ben Glass, founder of BenGlassLaw and a veteran soccer referee with over 51 years of experience. “Her story highlights how officiating can build character and leadership, both on and off the field.”
Lojek, who has excelled as a young referee, plans to continue officiating during her college years. She has already researched youth soccer leagues in Evanston, Illinois, and looks forward to mentoring new athletes. “Refereeing has been such a huge part of my life that I cannot imagine simply stopping when I go to college,” Lojek said. Her dedication to community service and athletics aligns with the scholarship’s goals.
While undecided on her major, Lojek is exploring interests in economics, legal studies, and pre-medical tracks. She intends to balance her academic pursuits with continued involvement in soccer and community support. The BenGlassLaw team believes she will remain an asset to any community she serves.
Ben Glass, in addition to his legal practice, has spent decades mentoring young referees and authored “YOU, A Teenage Soccer Referee” to offer practical advice. His firm, BenGlassLaw, is committed to helping individuals stand up against powerful insurance companies, handling personal injury, auto accident, and long-term disability claims. The firm extends its best wishes to Lojek as she embarks on her collegiate journey.
