Brian Krug is proud to be the new Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County, the highest award given to a member.
"It's a big honor to me honestly," Krug said of winning the title, which honors a club member for character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to his community.
A member of the South Haven Boys & Girls Club, he serves as a coach for the athletic league and referees during soccer and basketball seasons. He also operates the club's concession stand as part of the Teen Enterprise program. As a participant in the club's ImageMaker's digital photography program, his photograph won a regional club competition.
"Brian has been a helpful, supportive member and role model here at the South Haven Unit over the years," Ron Ranta, South Haven club director, said in a news release. "His leadership and moral examples are priceless to my members and the entire staff. I have no doubt that Brian will have a very bright and successful future in the career that he chooses."
Krug said he likes the club because it's an organized and friendly place where he can see friends and play sports.
"I have good relationships with all the staff. I can go to any of them and they can help me with my problems. It's like another home for me."
Krug will head to Indianapolis April 19-20 to compete in the statewide Youth of the Year competition, with a $1,000 college scholarship on the line.
The Portage High School senior plans to study auto mechanics and starts classes at Lincoln School of Technology this summer.
Krug said he looks up to his dad, who works hard to support five people in his family.
"He has helped me a lot," Krug said. "He's taught me pretty much everything I know about cars. He's always been there for me and I'm grateful for it."
Krug said joining Boys & Girls Club changed his life.
"I hope it can have the same impact on other kids as it did on me."
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