Hackettstown High School’s Tyler Jenkins nominated for USA Football’s Heart of a Giant Award
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Hackettstown High School senior Tyler Jenkins has been nominated for USA Football’s Heart of a Giant Award, presented by the Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants, the program announced this week.
The award, now in its 12th year, honors Tri-State area high school athletes, student managers, and mascots who demonstrate commitment, teamwork, will, character, and dedication on and off the field. Jenkins, an offensive and defensive lineman, is among the nominees for Week 2.
Voting for Week 2 is open until Sept. 28 at usafootball.com/heart-of-a-giant/vote. The nominee with the most votes will advance as that week’s finalist. Each weekly finalist receives a $1,000 equipment grant for their school’s football program, with the grand prize winner earning an additional $9,000 and being honored on the field at a future Giants game.
Jenkins, who returned to the field after shoulder surgery as a sophomore, has been recognized by coaches and teammates for his resilience and leadership. He mentors younger players, including his brother, by teaching plays and setting an example of focus and consistency. Off the field, he has made Honor Roll across multiple years, was invited to apply for the National Honor Society, and volunteers in the community through car washes, clean-ups, and youth football camps.
Program organizers said the Heart of a Giant award highlights student-athletes whose perseverance and passion for the game inspire others.
