The Richmond Kickers are pleased to recognize Jena Bancroft as the recipient of the 2012 High School Recreational Scholarship.

Awarded each year to a graduating high school senior continuing his or her education, the High School Recreational Scholarship is determined by a comprehensive application process that includes transcripts, letters of reference and an essay.

“Soccer has given me a unique opportunity to see the game from the angle of a player, referee and a coach,” commented Bancroft.  “Playing over the years has shown me that practice and persistence is important in improving one’s ability.  It has taught me the ability to share responsibility for the team as a whole and helped me understand that trust is like a commitment to each other; it takes a unified effort to reach our goal.  And, I have met my best friends playing soccer and we will be soccer friends for life.”

A member of the Richmond Kickers since elementary school, Bancroft began playing rec soccer with the former MYSL before playing on Kickers travel teams.  A certified F Licensed coach, she has committed numerous hours to coaching winter and summer camps, U8-U12 Advanced Skills and goalkeeping sessions while assisting with the Kickers U4 program at Hensley.  She has also dedicated many volunteer hours during the Mega Blast tournament and other summer and winter tasks associated with the club.

Bancroft is the daughter of former MYSL coach Allen and Naaz, both of whom continue to volunteer in various positions with the Richmond Kickers.  Her brother, Austin, is currently playing on the Kickers U13 Elite White team, coached by Mike Burke.

Richmond Kickers Recreational Technical Director, John Addison, presented the scholarship to Bancroft at the Scholarship Ceremony for Seniors on May 30, one week before she graduated from Midlothian High School.  She will attend Longwood University in the fall to pursue her education.

Congratulations to the entire family on this fine accomplishment and for helping to make a difference to so many.