Long Island Teen Alexa Colao Becomes Junior New York Giants Reporter

MIDDLE ISLAND, NY – Becoming a sports journalist is something that many kids aspire to be when they grow up. For 13-year-old Alexa Colao of Middle Island, NY, that dream became a reality when she was selected as the Junior New York Giants Reporter ahead of the team’s Week 7 home game against the Washington Commanders.

As the grand prize winner of Wendy's New York Giants Jr. Reporter sweepstakes, Alexa received the opportunity to interview Giants Wide Receiver Darius Slayton for the New York Giants social media pages. In her interview with the fifth-year NFL pro, Alexa asked questions that ranged from how he first got involved with playing football to his personal goals and any advice that he could share with kids who look up to him as a role model. They even talked about Alexa’s passion for competitive cheerleading.

She and her family also scored other great prizes, including an exclusive tour of the Giants practice facilities and MetLife Stadium, a signed Daniel Jones helmet, a $500 Wendy’s gift card, and four suite level tickets, including an on-field ovation at Sunday’s Giant’s game against the Washington Commanders.

“The most exciting part was being able to walk onto the field at MetLife stadium and see my interview with Darius Slayton being played on all four Jumbotrons – I will never forget it,” Alexa said. “My dad has been a long-time Giants fan and for me to be able to interview an NFL player from the Giants was so amazing!”

“I grew up around football, my dad and brother played, and I have cheered since I was five years old.”

On the week of the game, Wendy's hosted a celebratory lunch at its American Dream location for all 10 finalists and their families from all around the New York and New Jersey area. The lunch was complete with a surprise appearance by former Giants Linebacker, Jonathan Castillas, who signed autographs, posed for pictures, and answered questions from the kids.

Alexa had her favorite go-to order of chicken nuggets, hot and crispy fries, and a frosty.

"Wendy's is delighted to sponsor the annual New York Giants Jr. Reporter contest and empower kids in the tri-state area to use their voice and get involved in journalism,” said Jessica Welch, Division Manager, Marketing, The Wendy's Company. “Sports and great food bring everyone together and we're happy to be a part of the greater tri-state community. We're so proud of Alexa and her interview with Giants player Darius Slayton - the future of sports journalism is bright."

There were more than 1,400 entries from children all across the tri-state area. All of the kids, with help from their parents or guardian, entered the sweepstakes using an online form via the New York Giants website with finalists and grand prize winner chosen at random.

Watch her full interview with Darius Slayton here.