Memorial Scholarships
A Way to Remember Individuals
For four years, Kari Ann Lotko played soccer with the Sirens / Ares Soccer Club of Rockford. A kind-hearted and supportive young lady off the field, she trans-formed into a determined, spirited and deft-dribbling forward when she pulled on her blue Sirens jersey.
Last February, the Sirens lost a star, when Kari, 14, died from injuries she suffered in a three-car accident on Spring Creek Road in Rockford.
Families of the soccer club struggled with their grief, then proposed ideas that ultimately were approved by the club's governing board to memorialize Kari
Her jersey number "8" was permanently retired from all girls' Sirens teams and the Ares teams, the boys' ivision of the club.
A black and white patch - "KL-8" representing Karl's initials and her number - was worn on the sleeve of every club member during last spring's season play.
The Kari Lotko Memorial Scholarship Fund was established through the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.
The club's annual Octoberfest Challenge Cup Tournament would be renamed the Kari Lotko Memorial Challenge Cup. The event was held Oct 9-10 at Sportscore I & II in Rockford A portion of its proceeds will be designated each year to support the Kari Lotko Memorial Scholarship Fund.
"Kari was a role-model of a player," said Pete Glon, Sirens / Ares Club manager. "She made an impact in people's lives. You want to remember individuals like that."
The scholarship is available to female high school seniors who play soccer with the Sirens and/or the Boylan High School soccer team.
Kari's parents, Andy and Joanne Lotko, have appreciated the generosity of the many people wishing to help preserve the memory of Kari. The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is honored to be of assistance.