Senior Chris Piazza Receives Prestigious National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Award
New Lenox, IL – Providence Catholic High School is proud to announce that senior Chris Piazza has been selected as one of three recipients of the highly coveted National Football Foundation (NFF) Scholar-Athlete Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes excellence in academics, football, and community involvement. Piazza’s outstanding achievements will be celebrated at a special event on February 19 at Halas Hall, headquarters for the Chicago Bears.
Head Football Coach Tyler Plantz commends Piazza’s well-deserved recognition, stating, “This award is a testament to his unwavering dedication and hard work. It is truly impressive and highlights his exceptional mindset and work ethic in all aspects of his life. Chris sets the bar for the Celtic Standard through his leadership, scholarship, and relentless pursuit of excellence on the field. Above all, his commitment to spirituality and serving something greater than himself makes him an outstanding teammate and a deserving recipient of this award.”
Piazza holds a deep appreciation for the significance of athletics and academics in his life. “Sports have always been a vital part of who I am. The competitive nature and sense of brotherhood have shaped me into the person I am today,” says Piazza. “Competition has been a driving force in my life, whether it’s playing Monopoly with my family or participating in organized sports. What truly makes athletics invaluable is the bond formed within a team. The connections forged during offseason training and on-field experiences have led to lifelong friendships.”
The NFF has provided over $300,000 in college scholarships to student-athletes in the Chicago area since 2006. Nationally, the foundation awards over $1 million in college scholarships annually. Each recipient of the NFF Scholar-Athlete Award will receive a partial tuition scholarship.
Teacher Thomas Lenahan praises Piazza’s exceptional skills both on and off the field, stating, “Chris is not only one of the finest offensive linemen I have encountered, but also one of the top football players I have had the privilege to coach. His unmatched work ethic and dedication are evident in everything he does. Chris is always the first to arrive and the last to leave. Moreover, he exemplifies true sportsmanship and is always ready to lend a helping hand to struggling teammates.”
Piazza’s commitment to academic excellence is equally remarkable. “While being an athlete is important and demands significant time and effort, education ultimately holds the key to a successful future,” emphasizes Piazza. “Finding the right balance between sports and academics is a challenge, but it is crucial to prioritize studying and homework.”
With a remarkable 4.88 GPA, Piazza ranks in the top 5% of his class and achieved an impressive 34 on the ACT. He intends to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering and is considering attending the University of Notre Dame, University of Illinois, or Purdue University. Piazza is an Illinois State Scholar, AP Scholar, and has been named Student of the Month twice. Throughout his four years at Providence, he has earned numerous academic awards. Piazza is actively involved in various clubs, extracurricular activities, and volunteering initiatives. He serves as the Student Council President, a National Honor Society Officer, and a member of the Math Team and SAVI (Student Augustinian Values Institute). His faith holds great importance, and he serves as a Sacristan and a Eucharistic Minister. Piazza has dedicated his time to volunteering at organizations such as Feed My Starving Children, the Special Olympics, the Miracle League, and the Northern Illinois Foodbank. Additionally, he has actively participated in the Providence Catholic Youth Football Camps.
Piazza’s leadership extends to the athletic arena, where he plays an integral role in both the Football and Track and Field teams at Providence Catholic. He served as Captain of the football team. As a three-year starter and offensive line leader, he has been recognized as a CCL All-Conference and All-Academic Scholar-Athlete in 2021, 2022, and 2023. In Track and Field, Piazza excels in shotput and discus events.
“Contributing to the community is of utmost importance for several reasons,” adds Piazza. “Firstly, I am incredibly blessed and fortunate to be where I am today. It is easy to take our privileges for granted. The most valuable thing we can offer is our time.”
As Piazza concludes his time as a Providence Catholic football player, he cherishes the memories made on the field. When asked about his most cherished moment, he recalls, “Winning against Joliet Catholic in the second round of the playoffs last year. It was an electrifying victory in our home stadium, with the stands packed to the brim. It was a feeling I hope to carry with me forever.”
Providence Catholic High School congratulates Chris Piazza on his remarkable achievements and wishes him continued success in his future endeavors.