LONG VALLEY, NJ — A West Morris Central High School football player has the chance for himself and his coach to be honored at a future New York Giants game thanks to his nomination for the "Heart of a Giant" award.
Bryce Cammarata, who plays both football and lacrosse for West Morris Central, was nominated for USA Football's Heart of a Giant Award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants.
Coaches across New Jersey nominate some of their kindest players for the award, or players with the best character.
Cammarata was nominated for his "commitment," according to a news release. He is one of 20 nominees that you can vote for now here.
"Football helps me get through obstacles by providing me with a built-in family and support group to help me through any roadblocks. It’s also enabled me to create lifelong friendships and amazing relationships with several coaches who have guided me and given advice along the way, which will influence me for the rest of my life," Cammarata said.
As a senior at West Morris Central High School, Cammarata is the team captain for both the football and lacrosse teams. Over the years, he has earned a variety of accomplishments in both sports, including two state championships in football.
"I have demonstrated leadership in football both on and off the field by trying to be the best role model. Always giving 100 percent effort and motivating my teammates in season and out of season to better themselves for the team," Cammarata said.
Off the field, Cammarata stated that he enjoys academic challenges and is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at West Morris Central, in addition to other AP classes.
"Whether it’s in the classroom or on the field, I always want to challenge myself," Cammarata said.
The voting period for these nominees is now open until Oct. 8, with the final vote tally determining who will be named the weekly group's finalist.
At the end of the 6-week voting process, six finalists and five wild card finalists will be named, for a total of 11 finalist honorees. Each finalist will receive a $1,000 grant for their high school's football program, with the grand prize winner's school getting an additional $9,000 equipment grant. The grand prize winner and his coach will be honored on the field at a future New York Giants game this season.
The grand prize winner will be selected based on video submissions stating why they have the Heart of a Giant.