The Greater Philadelphia Illini Club honored its first scholarship winner at its annual Phillies tailgate and game.  Jake Antoniello of Yardley and his father were honored guests at the July 25^th event outside Citizens Bank Park.  Club officers presented Antoniello with an official UIAA certificate at the tailgate.  Antoniello says his scholarship is “a tremendous honor.”  He plans on majoring in General Engineering at the University of Illinois.   

Antoniello had an amazing high school career at Pennsbury High School.  He graduated first in his class and was a National Merit Scholarship Finalist.  Antoniello excelled as a musician as well, playing saxophone in the Bucks County Youth Orchestra and the Bucks Jazz Band.  He also found time to volunteer in his community and lead his high school’s Ultimate Frisbee Team.  His school counselor gave him high praise.  “Jake is easily one of the top students I have encountered in my 15 years as a counselor,” said Dina Cole, Pennsbury School Counselor.

The scholarship funds were raised over three years, thanks to the generosity of the members of the Greater Philadelphia Illini Club.  The club holds a scholarship dinner and game watch every January. 

Besides visiting with the scholarship winner at the tailgate event, dozens of Illini alumni also enjoyed an exciting Phillies game.  Highlights included a grand slam by Jimmy Rollins, followed two pitches later by a home run by Shane Victorino.  The Phillies beat the Cardinals  14-6.

The Greater Philly Illini Club holds a Phillies tailgate and game outing every summer.  Members hope to continue the new tradition of honoring its new scholarship winner at the tailgate and treating the winner and a guest to the game.