BenGlassLaw, a Northern Virginia-based law firm, has announced that Sydney Lojek has been named the recipient of the 2026 BenGlassLaw Referee and Umpire Leadership Scholarship. Lojek will receive $2,500 to support her upcoming studies at Northwestern University, where she plans to continue her involvement in soccer officiating.
The scholarship is designed to honor students who have used their referee experience in creative ways within a professional context. Lojek stepped up to help solve a local soccer referee shortage, developing mentorship and leadership skills that have made a significant impact in her community. Her dedication and initiative impressed the BenGlassLaw team, which values community commitment and the positive influence of sports on young professionals.
Lojek, an exceptional young referee, intends to keep officiating during college. She has already researched youth soccer leagues in Evanston, Illinois, and looks forward to helping new athletes gain confidence on the field. As an incoming college student, she plans to balance community service with her academic pursuits. While undecided on a major, she is interested in economics, legal studies, and Northwestern’s pre-medical track.
“Refereeing has been such a huge part of my life that I cannot imagine simply stopping when I go to college,” Lojek said. Her commitment to the sport and to mentoring others aligns with the values championed by Ben Glass, the firm’s founder, who has spent over 51 years refereeing youth and high school soccer. Glass officiates about 50 games a year and has authored YOU, A Teenage Soccer Referee, a book offering practical advice based on his decades of experience.
The BenGlassLaw scholarship is part of Glass’s broader effort to support young referees. “I’m proud to support the next generation of officials through this opportunity,” Glass said. The firm, which focuses on personal injury, auto accident, and long-term disability claims, believes that Lojek’s story exemplifies the leadership and responsibility that sports can instill.
Lojek’s selection highlights the importance of community involvement and shows how skills gained on the field can translate into professional success. Her story serves as an example for other young athletes considering careers in officiating or community leadership. As she begins her collegiate journey, BenGlassLaw wishes her the best and is confident she will continue to be an asset to her communities.
