Local Football Player's Dedication Earns 'Heart Of A Giant' Award Nomination

WAYNE, NJ — A Passaic Tech 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.

Senior LaDainian Pless was nominated for USA Football's Heart of a Giant Award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants. The defensive tackle for Passaic Tech was recognized for his perseverance after losing his father, his dedication to the team, and also for how he works as a leader to his teammates.

Coaches across New Jersey nominate some of their most dedicated players for the award, or players with the best character. Pless’s father died two years ago during the football season, and his coach credited him for still coming to practice every day.

“LaDanian still honors his father by being a great teammate, friend, and son,” his nominator wrote. “We are fortunate to have LaDianian's bright light as a member of our team.”

In his application, Pless explained how he embodies the Heart of a Giant characteristic of Dedication. He spoke of the tragedy he has experienced — not only losing his father, but family members and friends, as well.

“Football helped me get through my obstacles because it was like a break from everything I had going on,” Pless said. “I go to practice to have fun with my teammates, and also to have another opportunity to be great.”

Pless said his late father got him involved in football from his early years, and that he would never forget the first day they first started doing serious workouts to get him prepared for a hopeful professional career.

"I always remember that voice in my head pushing me to get through my obstacles," Pless said.

The voting period for these nominees is now open until Sunday, October 29, 2023 at 11:59pm (ET), 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.

For more information on the program, click here.