2 Somerset County Football Players Nominated For 'Heart Of A Giant Award'

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — Two high school football players from Somerset County have been nominated for a prestigious "Heart of a Giant Award."

James Renz

James Renz a senior at Bernards High School in Bernardsville recently earned a nomination for USA Football’s annual award, which is presented by the Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants.

Now entering its 12th straight year, the award spotlights high school athletes in the Tri-State Area who demonstrate a “relentless work ethic and unmatched love for the game.” Players are nominated by their coaches for their commitment, teamwork, willpower, character and dedication – on and off the field.

Fernandez was nominated as part of the Week 5 players. Voting will be open until Oct. 19. Fans can vote for him online here.

Here’s what earned the ambitious gridiron standout a nomination, organizers said:

A three-sport athlete, James has earned varsity letters in football and baseball while also competing on two state championship teams in football and winter track.

Off the field, he gives back to his community by volunteering at youth football camps and umpiring youth baseball games, serving as a role model for younger athletes. He is also committed to academics, earning honor roll recognition while balancing his demanding athletic schedule. Known for his resilience, leadership, and heart, James has been a steady force and key contributor to his team’s success.

"I grew up as a big football fan, even though I mainly played baseball when I was younger. In 8th grade, I decided to give football a chance, and I immediately fell in love with it. My first season was exciting and rewarding, and it motivated me to keep playing. From then on, football became one of my greatest passions," said Renz.

One obstacle Renz has faced "is learning resilience through football. Mistakes happen on the field, but I’ve developed a 'next-play' mentality that I now apply to school and life. If I do poorly on a test, I don’t let it define me — I study harder and bounce back stronger. Football has taught me to stay focused and move forward no matter the setback."

Vito Macrogliese

Vito Macrogliese, a senior at Immaculata High School in Somerville, also recently earned a nomination for USA Football’s annual award.

He was first introduced to football in sixth grade by his father.

"Before that, I practiced martial arts, but over time, my passion for it faded. Once I put on shoulder pads for the first time, I knew football was the right sport for me. I loved the aggression, discipline, and teamwork it required, and from that day forward, I was hooked," said Macrogliese.

Macrogliese is known for his leadership on and off the field. On the field his tammates know they can count on him to bring the same effort, discipline, and energy every time. In the classroom, he demonstrates leadership by helping his peers when they fall behind or struggle to understand lessons. He makes it a point to explain concepts and support them so they can succeed.

His accomplishments include being on the French National Honor Society, Bilingual in English and French, Football team captain, and having eight years of training in Kung Fu.

"One of my proudest personal accomplishments is choosing to move out of my mother’s house and become independent. Despite doubts from others due to religious and personal beliefs, I built a life where I can stand on my own. This decision taught me responsibility, resilience, and self-sufficiency. I now take pride in calling myself an independent man," said Macrogliese.

"Football has always been my outlet for overcoming challenges in life. Whether I was angry, sad, or struggling mentally, I could always count on the game and my teammates to help me push through. The sport gave me structure and an outlet to work through personal obstacles. Football has been my way to stay grounded and move forward with strength," said Macrogliese.

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.

For more information or to vote, visit usafootball.com/heart-of-a-giant/vote.

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