Heart of a Giant Award
The USA Football Heart of a Giant award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants, recognizes high school students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut who demonstrate an unparalleled work ethic and passion for the game of football.
The award showcases the Tri-State high school tackle and flag football athletes, student managers, student mascots, or other designated student team members who demonstrate that extra something special— in the classroom, out in the community, or on the field.
The Heart of a Giant program is dedicated to advancing equity within the sport of football by recognizing the passion students, inclusive of all ability levels, have for the game with a chance to win a $10,000 equipment grant.
Heart of a Giant Spirit
HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 16th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2025-2026), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2024-2025). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a fifth consecutive year (2025). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection and complication rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida.
2024 Winner
Vanessa Tepper
Minisink Valley High School | Slate Hill, NY
Vanessa is a remarkable young woman who has overcome significant health challenges with unwavering resilience. Diagnosed with ITP, she endured weeks in the hospital battling internal bleeding but maintained a positive spirit throughout her treatment. Driven by a desire to make a difference, she took the initiative to start the inaugural flag football team at her school, even when her own participation was uncertain. Vanessa not only mentored new athletes but also contributed as a coach. Her determination and hard work paid off, as she was able to compete in the spring season. Beyond her athletic achievements, Vanessa is deeply involved in her community, volunteering at a local food kitchen and supporting various sporting events. She has also participated in other varsity sports and is currently dedicated to helping others overcome health issues through her involvement in a half-day program and the EMS program. Vanessa's academic accomplishments are equally impressive, as she is a member of the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and High Honor Roll. She has completed an impressive 26 college credits while still in high school and has been recognized for her leadership and community service with awards such as the Sojourner Truth Award and a spot on the Junior Leadership Committee of Orange County. On the athletic field, Vanessa has excelled as the captain of both the varsity flag football and varsity soccer teams. She has also received prestigious awards like the United States Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award, Offensive Player of the Year in flag football, Coaches Award in soccer, and has achieved third-place finishes in women's varsity wrestling, girls' soccer, and flag football. Vanessa's unwavering spirit, dedication to her community, and exceptional athletic achievements make her a truly inspiring individual.