CHICAGO- Saint Xavier University's place-kicker, Tom Lynch, received the 2010 Fred Mitchell Award. This award is given to the nation's top place-kicker in the FCS, Division II, Division III, and NAIA for excellence both on the football field and in the community. Lynch was one of over 600 eligible place-kickers for this award, named after Fred Mitchell, the All-American place-kicker from Wittenberg University. <Click Here for more information about the award.>
Lynch's volunteer work in the community is what set him apart from the other nominees for the award. "Over the past two years, I have taken part in many different community service projects," said Lynch. "I served as a day camp counselor at my church (South Bridge Community Church in Orland Park). I provide lawn care and I also do random maintenance work around my church. I have also volunteered at the PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) homeless shelter." He describes his experience by explaining that "providing these people with food and a place to sleep was a real heartwarming experience. Volunteering at the PADS homeless shelter for the first time was a real emotional and humble experience. Talking with these people one-on-one and hearing their devastating life stories really made me realize that I have been taking so much in my life for granted."
Lynch also donates time to the Palos Hills EMA (Emergency Management Agency) under the department for Homeland Security. "This community service is good for me because my major is Criminal Justice. We get many certifications for many things that you need to be a police officer, and we also get to go out into the community and provide a helping hand for anyone who needs us whether it means that we do security at a parade or help cleaning up after a catastrophe."
Lynch also volunteers at his high school, as a place-kicker tutor for the football team at Lincoln-Way East. "Being able to pass on what I have learned and watching these young men develop into better kickers really makes me feel good. I also know that my high school coach really appreciates it because he is not as familiar with specific kicking techniques."
Lynch had a successful year with the 2010 SXU Football team his junior year, going 86 percent (13-15) attempts on the season including a 47-yarder. However, he considers the Fred Mitchell Award to be one of his greatest accomplishments in his football career.
Click Here for more information on Saint Xavier football.
Lynch's volunteer work in the community is what set him apart from the other nominees for the award. "Over the past two years, I have taken part in many different community service projects," said Lynch. "I served as a day camp counselor at my church (South Bridge Community Church in Orland Park). I provide lawn care and I also do random maintenance work around my church. I have also volunteered at the PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) homeless shelter." He describes his experience by explaining that "providing these people with food and a place to sleep was a real heartwarming experience. Volunteering at the PADS homeless shelter for the first time was a real emotional and humble experience. Talking with these people one-on-one and hearing their devastating life stories really made me realize that I have been taking so much in my life for granted."
Lynch also donates time to the Palos Hills EMA (Emergency Management Agency) under the department for Homeland Security. "This community service is good for me because my major is Criminal Justice. We get many certifications for many things that you need to be a police officer, and we also get to go out into the community and provide a helping hand for anyone who needs us whether it means that we do security at a parade or help cleaning up after a catastrophe."
Lynch also volunteers at his high school, as a place-kicker tutor for the football team at Lincoln-Way East. "Being able to pass on what I have learned and watching these young men develop into better kickers really makes me feel good. I also know that my high school coach really appreciates it because he is not as familiar with specific kicking techniques."
Lynch had a successful year with the 2010 SXU Football team his junior year, going 86 percent (13-15) attempts on the season including a 47-yarder. However, he considers the Fred Mitchell Award to be one of his greatest accomplishments in his football career.
Click Here for more information on Saint Xavier football.