Charlie Weidenbach '12 first took up football in first grade with the Naperville Saints of the St. Raphael Football League.   When he entered fifth grade, he began playing with his classmates at Saints Peter and Paul.  He was not only athletic, and one of the biggest boys in his class, but from an early age Charlie also demonstrated a passion for the game.

While on the Jr. Varsity as a fifth grader his team finished second and then captured the title the following year.  The same pattern repeated itself on the Varsity, where as a seventh grader, the squad fell one game short of the championship.   That disheartening loss motivated Charlie and his teammates as they dominated the league the following year.  Charlie was a two-way player, playing fullback on offense and middle linebacker on defense.

As a freshman at Benet Academy, it didn't take long for the coaches to recognize both his skill set and potential as he started in both his freshman and sophomore year.

A two-year varsity starter at the Lisle school, Charlie was instrumental in Benet's 8-3 mark during his recent senior campaign. Offensively, he was the short yardage option out of the backfield.   It was on defense where he really excelled, anchoring that squad from his position as middle linebacker.

In recognition of his standout performances on both sides of the ball, Charlie was named to the  Class 7A All-State first team squad by the Illinois Coaches' Association.  In addition, the East Suburban Catholic Conference coaches voted him the Most Valuable Defensive Player in the league.  This is only the second time in Benet's history  that  this feat was accomplished.

"Charlie was voted by his teammates last spring as one of our tri-captains," said head coach Pat New.  "His leadership was very important to our success as he set a great example for our players by devoting himself faithfully in the weight room, on the practice field, as well as in studying film."

Charlie is planning on continuing his career in college, although he has yet to commit.  Several  schools, such as Princeton and Dartmouth, have met with him.  His likelihood of playing in the Ivy League is enhanced by his 29 ACT score and 3.4 GPA.  He has also received feelers from Miami (OH) and Dayton.

"While every kid dreams of one day playing in the NFL, I'm realistic enough to know that that's not where my future lies.  So while I love the game, my college decision will be based on the best fit for me academically, and not just football."

With that perspective, it's obvious that Charlie is more mature than many student-athletes his age, and we congratulate him on his accomplishments.