For the second straight season, a member of the Wright City football program was honored by the Tom Lombardo Chapter of the National Football Foundation.

In a ceremony that took place on May 3 at the Missouri Athletic Club, Wright City senior Quinn Schnarre was recognized by the chapter as one of its ‘Elite-Eleven’ for 2026.

The honor recognizes student-athletes who excel in both academics and athletics. 

“Being recognized for all the work I have put in is very rewarding,” Schnarre said. “I am very appreciative of this award and the National Football Foundation for everything."

The honor, which includes $2,000 in scholarship funds, comes from the senior’s work not only on the field but also in the classroom and in the community. Schnarre earned his honor after fellow Wildcat Duan McRoberts was recognized with the same honor last year, before graduating.

On the field, Schnarre – the 5-foot-11, 225-pound linebacker – amassed 100 total tackles to lead the Wildcats (7-4) while adding 16 tackles for loss, a fumble recovery and a pair of interceptions.

His contribution to the team and the school is more than just some statistics, though. Schnarre has given his time and used his talents in the classroom and the community to make Wright City a better place, his coach, Tyler Rickard, said.

“Quinn optimizes what you look for in a student-athlete: athletic performance, academic excellence, and servant leadership,” Rickard said. “On the field, Quinn was a tremendous football player. He received numerous accolades in his career, including Second-Team All-State this past season. He also finished second all-time in total tackles in Wright City history. Quinn was also a two-time team captain and a three-time leadership council representative.”

Rickard said that after a standout senior season and career, he felt Schnarre was worthy of nomination for the award.

“For the last four years, Quinn has not just been an integral part of our football program, but our entire school,” Rickard said. “He holds multiple leadership positions, is an active member in numerous clubs and sports, and is well-respected by his peers and teachers.

“In the classroom, Quinn is ranked eighth in his class and boasts a weighted GPA of 4.2,” Rickard added. “In the community, Quinn has accumulated over 100 volunteer hours, including helping at each of our youth and middle school football camps throughout the summers of his high school career.”

Throughout its history, the National Football Foundation St. Louis - Tom Lombardo Chapter has awarded over $750,000 in scholarships to St. Louis-area scholar-athletes and local football programs in need. The group’s mission is to celebrate and support amateur football while promoting the invaluable lessons the game teaches – dedication, teamwork, perseverance and integrity.

According to the group, the scholarship opportunities are for those who excel on the field, in the classroom, and reflect the kind of leadership that strengthens the community.

In addition to McRoberts last year, Mason Wendt was recognized by the NFF as being on the "Big Red's Top 25 Team," which recognizes the top-25 players in the area.

Schnarre said that such an honor isn’t his alone.

He thanked those around him for helping him achieve all that he has as he readies to continue his football playing career at Quincy University.

"I'm so grateful and blessed to be selected for this scholarship,” Schnarre said. “I give all the glory to God for leading me down this path and would like to thank my coaches, teammates, family members and everyone else who supported me throughout my career.”