Michigan Deli Athletes of the Week: Emma Padlo & Luciano Paparozzi

Emma Padlo and Luciano Paparozzi have been named this week's Athletes of the Week, a recognition program in Kenilworth that celebrates young athletes for their dedication to sports, character, and community contribution. Both students attend Harding Elementary School and represent the variety of athletic pursuits available to Kenilworth children.

Union County Life covers Kenilworth youth sports, student achievement, and community programs across all 21 Union County municipalities.

Emma Padlo — Upcoming Second Grader

Emma Padlo is going into second grade at Harding Elementary and brings enthusiasm and versatility to her athletic life. She has participated as a cheerleader for two seasons and has played both softball and basketball. This fall, she will be starting flag football, expanding her sports experience even further.

Beyond organized sports, Emma has studied karate, where her best sports memory so far is earning an orange belt—a milestone achievement that reflects her dedication to mastering new skills. She also enjoys gymnastics, Girl Scouts, spending time with her friends, and riding her scooter.

At school, Emma's favorite subject is math, and her favorite food is steak.

Luciano Paparozzi — Upcoming Fourth Grader

Luciano Paparozzi is entering fourth grade at Harding Elementary and has deep roots in baseball, having played since he was four years old. His athletic experiences also include wrestling for one year and trying both basketball and flag football.

Luciano's best sports memory is winning the Little League District 10 Championship with the Kenilworth All-Star team last summer—a significant achievement that reflects the skill and teamwork of the Kenilworth youth baseball program. Beyond sports, Luciano enjoys drawing, playing video games, and listening to music. This upcoming school year, he will be playing the trumpet, a new musical pursuit he is excited to explore.

At school, Luciano's favorite subject is science, and his favorite food is Buffalo wings.

Recognition and Sponsorship

The Athletes of the Week are chosen by Kenilworth coaches, recognizing students who demonstrate athletic skill, sportsmanship, and commitment to their teams. The program is sponsored by Michigan Deli, a community business that supports local youth and athletics.

Both Emma and Luciano will receive a burger, fries, and a soft drink from Michigan Deli as their Athletes of the Week prize.

About Michigan Deli

Michigan Deli, located at 219 Market Street in Kenilworth, is a family-owned luncheonette and restaurant serving the Kenilworth and Roselle Park communities. Owner Sue DeRosa and her husband Ray bring combined experience of 50+ years in the food industry, continuing their family legacies in food business and community service.

Michigan Deli serves classic luncheonette fare with emphasis on quality ingredients and homemade recipes. The menu includes prime locally-sourced burgers, hand-breaded chicken cutlets, homemade meatballs, house-made salads, handcrafted soups, local favorites, and six-foot subs. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, take-home dinner, and catering services.

The DeRosas have cultivated a warm, welcoming environment where community members feel comfortable and valued—a place where neighborhood connections matter as much as the food. Michigan Deli's hours are Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and closed Sundays.

How to Reach Michigan Deli

For pick-up orders, deliveries, or catering inquiries, call 908-245-8719. Orders are also available through UberEats, DoorDash, and GrubHub. Follow Michigan Deli on Instagram (@michigan_deli) and Facebook for daily specials.

The Athletes of the Week program celebrates Kenilworth's young athletes and reflects the community's commitment to youth development and local business partnership.

Find more Kenilworth youth programs, sports, and community achievements on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What is the Kenilworth Athletes of the Week program?
A: A recognition program that celebrates young athletes in Kenilworth for their dedication to sports, character, and community contribution. Athletes are chosen by Kenilworth coaches.

Q: Who were this week's Athletes of the Week?
A: Emma Padlo (incoming second grader) and Luciano Paparozzi (incoming fourth grader), both students at Harding Elementary School.

Q: What sports has Emma Padlo participated in?
A: Emma has been a cheerleader for two seasons, played softball and basketball for one season each, studied karate (earning an orange belt), and will start flag football this fall. She also enjoys gymnastics.

Q: What is Luciano Paparozzi's best sports memory?
A: Winning the Little League District 10 Championship with the Kenilworth All-Star team last summer.

Q: How long has Luciano played baseball?
A: Since he was four years old.

Q: What is the prize for being Athletes of the Week?
A: Winners receive a burger, fries, and a soft drink from Michigan Deli, the program's sponsor.

Q: Who sponsors the Athletes of the Week program?
A: Michigan Deli, a family-owned luncheonette at 219 Market Street in Kenilworth.

Q: How does Michigan Deli choose to sponsor the Athletes of the Week?
A: Michigan Deli owners Sue and Ray DeRosa are committed to supporting Kenilworth youth and community, reflecting their family legacy in the food industry and community values.