Elenzano marks historic NFL win for the CNMI

John Edward Elenzano made history for the Commonwealth after being named champion in storytelling during the National Forensic League competitions held in Dallas, Texas last weekend.

Elenzano was part of the Team CNMI that competed with the best students in the nation in NFL events that saw the participation of over 4,000 talented students across the country.

The 18-year-old winner is the second child of Edong and Fe Elenzano and a consistent delegate to the national contest. According to his mother, this year marked her son’s fifth and last year in the competition.

John Edward Elenzano said it was a great feeling to win the award for the first time for the CNMI team. He was awarded the championship trophy and $500 scholarship to any college. His winning piece was titled “The Girl Who Became a Mean Bear.”

He bested over a hundred of the country’s best storytellers to win the championship trophy, making him part of the prestigious “Circle of Champions.”

The CNMI has been sending delegations to the national event for many years now and has had several notable achievements, placing in the Top 10 and Top 20. In 2010, the prestigious Show Me Excellence Award went to Ryan Bradley Ortizo. Elenzano’s win, however, is the first time the CNMI got the championship award for a specific category.

His victory was relayed to his family by his coach, who kept the family abreast of what was happening during the competition rounds.

“His coach called us when he was announced part of the final 6 contenders for storytelling. I was even surprised at first because his coach was crying when she talked to us…and from her we found out, Edward made it to the finals. For the family, that alone was truly a big win. So when we received the next call after the final round, we were very happy and proud…because he emerged champion,” said Fe Elenzano yesterday.

John Edward Elenzano’s achievement was not really a big surprise for the proud mother because she knew of her son’s dedication and commitment. “I have witnessed all his hard work and sacrifices…he deserves it.”

Elenzano, along with the other delegates, arrived late Wednesday night on Saipan. They were welcomed by families and friends with banners and leis.

Just days before his trip to the competition, Elenzano wanted to give his dad a special gift for Father’s Day before leaving.

“My son asked me what is the best gift he can give to his dad on Father’s Day….and I told him ‘a medal’ and ‘just be home safe’ are the best gifts…and he did it! So we’re very happy,” Fe Elenzano said.

The father, Edong Elenzano, said that his son’s gift this year is among the best he has ever received from John Edward. “We will continue to support him.”

John Edward Elenzano recently graduated from Mount Carmel High School and plans to join the U.S. Air Force. He began going to the U.S. mainland to compete in national events since he was in seventh grade.