Blake Parzych, Chairperson

I grew up in the small but vibrant town of Minooka, Illinois, where my love for sports began at the age of six with baseball and basketball, eventually leading me to football. Sports quickly became more than just activities—they were my foundation. They shaped my identity, forged lifelong friendships, and taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and joy. At Minooka Community High School, I proudly dedicated four years to both the basketball and football teams.

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My passion for football led me to Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, where I played as a defensive tackle for four unforgettable years. Being elected Captain in my senior year by my teammates and coaches was one of the proudest moments of my life. Unfortunately, my final season was overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting us to just one game that fall. To make matters more challenging, I suffered a concussion during fall camp and made the difficult decision to step away from the game I loved, putting my health first. Though my playing career ended earlier than I had hoped, I wouldn’t trade those years for anything—they taught me resilience, discipline, and the true meaning of camaraderie.

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Graduating from SIU-Carbondale in 2020 marked the start of a new chapter. Transitioning from a life built around sports to navigating the "real world" was daunting, as I grappled with finding a new identity beyond the field. Still, I leaned on the skills I developed as a teammate and leader, applying them to my professional journey and discovering new ways to grow.

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Joining Afterlete has been a game-changer. It’s helped me realize that while my time as an athlete may be behind me, the values and mindset I developed are still very much a part of who I am. Through Afterlete, I’ve found the sense of community I missed from the locker room—a space to connect with others who understand the challenges of this transition. Together, we’re not just reflecting on what we’ve left behind but building toward what’s next.