FVCC Logger Sports athlete honored

Flathead Valley Community College’s Logger Sports athlete Abraham Chentnik received the Montana Athletes in Service Award from Montana Campus Compact at the recent 2024 Brawl of the Wild Cat-Griz football game in Bozeman.  

The Montana Athletes in Service Award honors student-athletes who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and engagement in community service, positively impacting their local communities. 

A freshman at FVCC working toward an electronics technician certificate, Chentnik dedicates several hours each week to volunteering. His experience includes working with the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation to clear trees and horse pack supplies in and out of the wilderness, assisting the Paladin Conservancy with land cleanup, teaching a trail packing class for the local 4-H group, and helping the Northwest Montana Backcountry Horsemen with trail maintenance, bear box installations and teaching classes.  

“I volunteer because it allows me to make a meaningful impact in my community. Working on projects like trail maintenance and habitat restoration not only helps our ecosystem, but also forms a community among individuals who share a passion through the outdoors. I value the volunteer work we do so that many people can enjoy the wilderness,” Chentnik explained.  

Students from across the state who receive this award demonstrate that leadership extends beyond the field by balancing the demands of athletic training, academic pursuits and personal commitments.  

Their dedication to service inspires others to take action, reinforcing the connection between athletics, education and community responsibility.  

FVCC Logger Sports coach Ann Beall nominated Chentnik for the award, noting his undeniable impact on the team.  

“Abe quietly leads by example and has shown maturity beyond his years. He is a perfect role model – whether that be pushing himself in practice to get better or helping others with their technique. His teammates notice his approach and strive to match his attitude,” Beall said. “Abe’s dedication and commitment are truly inspiring. His hard work toward both the Logger Sports team and the numerous organizations he volunteers for deserve to be recognized.”  

Chentnik added that he hopes to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship through his volunteer efforts and works to help foster a culture of respect for nature.  

“Ultimately, I envision a community that values the environment but also works together to ensure its health and beauty for generations to come.”  

For more information about FVCC Logger Sports, follow the team on Instagram @fvccloggersports or visit fvcc.edu/campus-rec.