Westside High School senior Eli Svendsen was named the recipient of the Pensick and Pelini Center of Excellence Award on Dec. 10, an honor recognizing the top senior center in Class A football.

Now in its second year, the award honors former Nebraska Cornhusker centers Mark Pelini and Cole Pensick, who died in separate car accidents in 2022 and 2023. The award is given to a player who exemplifies the values both men demonstrated on and off the field.

Svendsen, who took over the starting center position following the graduation of Blake Keefer last season, played a key role on the Warriors’ offensive line. Westside finished the season with a 10-2 record, with the offensive front helping create scoring opportunities throughout the year.

Offensive line coach Brett Williams said the award reflects the work ethic required of linemen.

“It’s a fantastic and prestigious award,” Williams said. “Our offensive line puts in a lot of time and effort, doing things others aren’t always willing to do. To have one of our linemen receive this shows that hard work does pay off.”

As part of the recognition, Svendsen received a plaque, a $1,000 scholarship and will have a separate plaque displayed in Westside’s trophy case.

Svendsen said receiving the award was unexpected and meaningful.

“It’s an honor — something I never really expected,” Svendsen said. “It’s surreal. The mindset I have for football is the same one I try to have in everything I do — showing up every day and working to get better.”

The Pensick and Pelini Center of Excellence Award continues to honor the legacy of two former Husker linemen while recognizing excellence at the high school level.