Jeremy “Red” Scannell Memorial Scholarship

The inspiration for the Jeremy “Red” Scannell Memorial Scholarship was generated by his classmates at their 10-year class reunion in 2010. Jeremy was a much loved member of the class of 2000 who died in 2009. His nickname was “Red” but he bled “Spartan Blue”!

Jeremy was born with a congenital heart defect that required heart surgery at the age of two days old. In the following years he had many surgeries and four open-heart surgeries.

Even though he could not play football (his love), he was able to be manager of the football and baseball teams at PVHS for many years. Jeremy also helped the junior high basketball and football teams. At the age of 15 he met his idol, Michael Jordan, in Chicago – made possible by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. What a joy it was to see him so excited to meet M.J. After that great experience, he volunteered for Make-A-Wish by helping raise money so other children with life-threatening health issues could have a wish of their own. Jeremy received his Coaching Authorization in 2004. He then fulfilled his dream and became coach for a seventh grade football team at Pleasant Valley Junior High for one season.

Jeremy was a member of the LeClaire Civic Club helping with bingo, serving dinners, and any other projects he could. He also volunteered at Tug Fest in LeClaire as a member of the Pit Crew.

These are two lines from a favorite poem given to him by former PV football coach Ed Morrissey:

“Life’s battles don’t always go to the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later, the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.” -Vince Lombardi

Criteria to Apply:

• Involved in multiple athletic activities during their high school years
• Plan to attend a college or vocational school upon graduation

Scholarship Personal Statement/Essay:

• What impact did your involvement in athletics have on you or those on the team?
• In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us why you've chosen your field of study.
• In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us what your plans are after your post-secondary education is complete.
• In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us about one of the following: your ability to problem solve, work with others, and/or your dedication to the community.
• In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us how you've overcome an obstacle.
• In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us anything else about yourself you think the selection committee would like to know.