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Byram Hills Football Player Nominated For Heart Of A Giant Award

ARMONK, N.Y. -- Byram Hills High School Student Jerry Friedman is relishing every opportunity of his football experience.

Jerry Friedman

Jerry Friedman

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Sharyn Friedman

Friedman, a senior who lives in Bedford, is up for the Heart of a Giant Award, which goes to the hardest working football player in the tri-state area. Friedman plays wide receiver and handles punting and kicking.

The contest is sponsored by the Hospital For Special Surgery and the winner is recognized on the field at a New York Giants game on Dec. 28. The winning player's high school will receive $5,000 for new equipment.

The award is for the player who continuously displays commitment, determination, will, character and teamwork as part of their respective high school football teams will be honored through the program. Friedman was nominated by his coach, Scott Saunders.

"It feels awesome to be considered," Friedman said. "I'm happy my coach thought of me. It feels really good, it shows that hard work pays off."

Friedman is especially excited that Giants punter Steve Weatherford is the face of the contest.

"He's my idol," Friedman said. "He's an awesome guy who is always trying to do things to help the community like working with the Special Olympics."

Friedman has been a diehard Giants fan since he was born, being brought to games as an infant. Concerned about his safety, his parents wouldn't let him play football until this year.

"This is it for me," Friedman said. "I'm giving it my all."

Being a Byram Hills football player means being a positive role model for kids. Friedman is one of 18 senior mentors who run and teach a daily first period class for incoming freshman. He was also elected homecoming king.

"It's great to see the kids who look up to us, knowing they might play football for Byram Hills one day," Friedman said. 

Friedman is excited for the opportunity to raise money for the football program.

"They have done so much for me," Friedman said. "To help the program would be awesome. Playing for Byram Hills is a dream come true."

To vote for Friedman, visit http://www2.usafootball.com/poll_management/userpoll/4. Voting ends Sunday at midnight.

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