Jacob Pardalis, a senior at New Fairfield High School and All‑State baseball player, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Bill Benzing Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Western Connecticut Umpires Association.
The scholarship, established in memory of Bill Benzing, recognizes student‑athletes who demonstrate excellence in baseball, academics, leadership, sportsmanship, and community involvement.
Coach Joe Garbowski praised Pardalis for his natural leadership, dependability, and willingness to put the team first, noting that his character matches his on‑field performance.
In his scholarship essay, Pardalis reflected on fourteen years in baseball, describing how he learned to embrace adversity and persevere through setbacks.
A Legacy of Integrity
Bill Benzing, after whom the award is named, was a longtime umpire, educator, and coach whose career was defined by a commitment to mentorship and high ethical standards.
His influence extended beyond the diamond, shaping the lives of countless young people through education and community service.
Looking Ahead
Pardalis will attend Wesleyan University in the fall, where he will continue his baseball career with the Cardinals while pursuing studies that reflect the same dedication he showed in high school.
The award underscores the enduring impact of character‑driven leadership, a principle that continues to guide both the scholarship’s namesake and its newest honoree.