Carroll County Youth Soccer coach Patrick Hickner of Bringhurst was honored last week as TSS Photography's Indiana Volunteer of the Year. The award recognized him for donating countless hours for the betterment of the Flora community.

Hickner was chosen as Indiana's Volunteer of the Year based on specific criteria, including the length of volunteer time he dedicates to the community, specific responsibilities and duties performed, specific actions performed that are considered beyond normal duties, and ways he helps the lives of others. His nomination, along with more than 100 others from across the country, was reviewed by a selection committee consisting of TSS Photography corporate executives and franchise owners.

The award nomination for Hickner stated:

"He is currently serving as president of our league, performing those duties admirably, while also serving as grounds keeper and coach. He has been instrumental in helping to bring this league from a mere 50 plus participants just 10 years ago to over 250 kids throughout our county who now participate during our rec season. In addition to this he helps organize our spring and fall travel teams, coach travel teams, recruit coaches, develop and organize clinics, locate and reserve fields and referees, and attend each and every game throughout the county.

"He is also a licensed referee and coach, and somehow finds the time to preside over monthly meetings, and delegate duties to board members. All of these various duties he has performed himself on many occasions, including assigning referees for each season and game, insuring all fields are ready, scheduling games, practices, and sites, serving as liaison to the State Soccer Board, and spokesperson for the league to surrounding leagues. He has organized clinics for youth, and recruited and booked instructors for these clinics. He and his wife also open their home and house these instructors, while they are teaching in the county.

"He not only works fulltime, but also teaches Sunday School, coaches Little League, is a 4-H volunteer, and is the father of four children. He and his wife are very active in the school corporation and attend all high school, junior high, and elementary ballgames. He is an excellent candidate because his spirit and positive attitude, not only inspires others, but exemplifies what we all want our children to learn while playing organized sports. He comes to every event with a smile on his face and consistently puts children first."

Hickner was presented with a $150 portrait package and a commemorative award plaque. In addition, the nominating youth organization, Carroll County Youth Soccer, received $500.

"Pat Hickner possesses the perfect characteristics that make for a positive leader for the Carroll County Youth Soccer - sportsmanship, ability to teach, and having fun," said Ray Yeager, TSS Photography owner. "The Volunteer of the Year program provided the perfect opportunity to honor Pat's dedication and commitment to the organization and the area's youth."