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CREC Student-Athlete Named Youth of the Year
(Enfield, CT) Khahari Mangual, a senior student-athlete at CREC’s Public Safety Academy, was recently named both Youth of the Year by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hartford and Connecticut Youth of the Year.
“Khahari is a sharp young man,” said CREC Public Safety Academy Principal Jeff Larson. “He has been able to master being a great citizen, student, and athlete, but more importantly, he is a great person. CREC’s Public Safety Academy is so proud of his accomplishments and looks forward to him changing the world as he embarks on his collegiate journey.”
Mangual, who lives in East Hartford, is an honor roll student, and he accepted his award at the organization’s annual gala, delivering an acceptance speech to an audience of more than 500 people. He received a standing ovation.
In addition to diligently pursuing his studies, Mangual has served as captain of both the CREC Public Safety Academy baseball and basketball teams, earning all-league honors. He was also captain of the CREC Colts football team.
“CREC Athletics has given me the opportunity to serve as a captain in three varsity sports,” Mangual said. “The discipline and leadership skills that I have gained, I will use for the rest of my life.”
CREC Athletic Director Jonathan Winer says the primary goal of CREC’s sports program is to promote the overall growth of CREC students into young adults.
“Khahari is a perfect example of an individual who grew into a leader on and off of the athletic playing field,” he said. “We are very proud of his development and are excited to see the amazing contributions he will make to society as he moves on to the next stage of his life.”
Mangual started going to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hartford when he was 6. He now volunteers for the organization, and he’s participated in several of its programs, including a financial literacy program and the Keystone Club, a teen leadership and service program.
“The Boys and Girls Clubs of Hartford is MY safe haven,” Mangual said. “It is where I find safety and comfort and escape the troubles in my home.”
Due to his hard work and persistence, Mangual will attend college next fall. He hopes to become a lawyer.
