Southington HS Female Flag Football Phenom Up For Award From NY Giants

SOUTHINGTON, CT — If Jaxson Dart doesn't pan out after a solid start, perhaps the New York Giants can look to Southington for some quarterback help.

That's because the quarterback of Southington High School's girls flag football team is up for a major honor partly sponsored by Big Blue.

Senior quarterback Kylie Savage of SHS was nominated recently for the 2025 USA Football Heart of a Giant Award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and the New York Giants.

She was part of a group of nominees announced for Week 5, with online voters having the final say on her award's status. Savage is the lone Connecticut football player on the list.

"These outstanding Tri-State area high school students have all been nominated for the award by their coaches for their commitment, teamwork, will, character, and dedication on and off the field," wrote USA Football, the national organization that governs both football nd flag football.

The voting period is now open for Week 6 nominees, and the online portal will be live until Oct. 26.

Here's what USA Football had to say about Savage:

"Kylie Savage, a senior at Southington High School, is a trailblazer for her school’s girls' flag football program and a true example of courage and leadership. As a quarterback, she has helped build a new program from the ground up—leading teammates who were new to the sport with patience, encouragement, and determination. During high-pressure moments, Kylie’s leadership shines, keeping her team’s confidence high and focus sharp.

"Beyond the field, she gives back by volunteering at her town’s youth flag football and basketball clinics, inspiring younger athletes to believe in themselves. She’s also a dedicated student, taking multiple AP classes and earning Second Honors while balancing athletics, work, and community involvement. Kylie’s independence, resilience, and love for the game have made her a standout role model both on and off the field.

The nominee with the most votes will be named that week’s finalist.

At the conclusion of the six-week process, there will be a total of 11 honorees (six weekly finalists and five honorable mentions) recognized for their work ethic and character.

Each finalist will receive a $1,000 equipment grant for their high school football program, with the grand prize winner earning an additional $9,000 grant for their school and being honored on the field at a future Giants game this season.

Selection of the grand prize winner will be based on video submissions explaining why they have the Heart of a Giant.

The fact that a Southington girls' flag football player is up for such an award shouldn't come as a surprise, as Southington is a Connecticut hotbed for the fast-growing sport.

It is home to the Southington Valley Midget Football League Powder Puff Football League, one of the state's pioneering leagues in the fast-growing sport.

For more information on the "Heart of a Giant" program, click on this link.

To vote for Southington High School's Kylie Savage, click on this link.

From Sept. 11, 2023: 'Southington Is CT's Girls Football Hotspot'