WANTAGE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — High Point Regional High School senior Anthony Longo is among the Week 2 nominees for the 2026 USA Football Heart of a Giant Award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants.
Longo, an offensive and defensive lineman, was nominated for his perseverance, community service and commitment to his football program. The award recognizes high school students from New Jersey, New York and Connecticut for their work ethic, character, teamwork and dedication on and off the field.
Longo was diagnosed with leukemia at age 5 and underwent three years of treatment before becoming cancer-free. Because of the treatment and resulting physical challenges, he was unable to play football when he was younger.
As a sophomore at High Point, Longo joined the football program as a team manager, studying film of upcoming opponents and helping coaches prepare. By the end of that season, he had gained enough strength and confidence to begin playing. He went on to become a two-year varsity football player.
Longo has also completed more than 380 hours of community service through church events, youth football clinics and other activities. He has maintained a 3.94 GPA and earned Honor Roll recognition throughout high school. He is also a varsity track athlete and basketball team manager.
Voting for the Week 2 nominees is open through Oct. 4. The nominee receiving the most votes will be named the week’s finalist.
At the conclusion of the six-week program, 11 students — six weekly finalists and five honorable mentions — will be recognized. Each finalist will receive a $1,000 equipment grant for their high school football program.
The grand prize winner will receive an additional $9,000 equipment grant for their school and will be honored on the field at a New York Giants game this season.
Voting is available through the USA Football Heart of a Giant Award website.
