An outstanding local individual was honored by the Chicago Bears Football Club, which manages Youth and High School Football, on Friday, April 5, 2024. At 11:30 a.m., the recognition took place in the Morrison High School auditorium, 643 Genesee Avenue, Morrison, IL.
Carson Strating was selected as one-of-nine Illinois nominees, for the annual “Bears and Athletico Community High School All Star Award.” This honor recognizes Football players who make a positive impact in their community and school–through their service, leadership, and character.
Gustavo Silva is Manager of Youth Football & Community Programs, on behalf of Chicago Bears. “We are ten members who vote” for nine recipients, “with winners all over the State. [Carson] is the first Morrison winner.” Silva presented Strating with a personalized, commemorative, NFL football. It read, “Presented to Carson Strating for demonstrating excellence in service to the community.”
Gathered left-to-right for a celebratory photo in the auditorium are, front, Football Coach and nominator, Nate Vandermyde; mother, Erica Strating; Carson; father, Jason Strating; Manager of Chicago Cubs Youth Football & Community Programs, Gustavo Silva; back, grandfather and grandmother, Jim and Paulette Strating; grandmother and grandfather, Sonia and Dave Schroeder.
Nate Vandermyde was instrumental in Strating’s skill development since he was a Freshman. Coach Vandermyde stated, “I was presented with the opportunity to nominate some of our players for the ‘Bears and Athletico Community High School All Star Award,’ that recognizes High School Football players who make a positive impact in their community and school. I took this opportunity to nominate Carson Strating for everything that he has done for the community. In the description of the award it [states this honor] is for student athletes that exemplify service, leadership, and character–which are all traits that Carson has.
“He was one of the Captains on our team for the past two years, making his mark on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. The amount of time he touched the ball reduced over the years, but Carson didn’t complain and actually relished the idea of blocking for his teammates.
“In the community Carson was always eager to volunteer. He did really well with the younger grades at the Jr. Tackle Camp, Flag Football (grades 1-5), and helping with morning drop-off at the Elementary schools on game days, during the Football season. He worked at the Beef Tent during the Fair, and helped move the Food Pantry to its new location this fall. Literally everything that was presented to him, he volunteered for.
“For me, personally, I leaned on him heavily this past year, with it being my first year as Head Coach. Carson is such a positive role model, for teammates to look up to, and for younger kids as well. I am so proud of all that he has accomplished!”