Clark Football Player Nominated For NY Giants Award

CLARK, NJ — Patrick Brennan, a defensive lineman of Arthur L. Johnson High School, was nominated to receive a 2019 "Heart of a Giant" award, presented by the New York Giants NFL team and the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan.

Brennan points to his character for being worthy of this award.

"I push myself not only to work hard on the field at practices and in games, but just as much in the classroom. As captain of my team, I make it a point to keep my teammates on track to be their best every day," Brennan said.

Brennan is a member of the National Honor Society and is a 4.0 GPA honors student.

Over the years, football has helped to provide structure for Brennan to make him into the man he is today.

"When I was a young boy, I was very rebellious and was removed from my school for not behaving and lashing out at my teachers and fellow students. My parents were very concerned and sought professional help. The therapist said that I needed an environment that was structured and provided discipline and a strict schedule. I feel that my involvement in football provides the structure and discipline that meets the needs and interests of my personality. I thrive in the environment. I love knowing that I have a responsibility to perform and participate on a consistent schedule. It is rigorous and regimented but that works for me!" Brennan said.

Off the field Brennan serves as the student representative for the town’s Board of Education. He also volunteers as a peer leader and participates in the Heroes and Cool Kids mentoring program.

Voting for Brennan and other nominees will be open for 25 days with final vote tally determining who will be named the group's finalist. One grand prize winner will be selected based on video submissions stating why they have the Heart of a Giant and will be honored on the field during a New York Giants' home game. All six finalists and four honorable mention finalists will receive $1,000 for their high school's football program, with the winner's school getting an additional $9,000.

For more information on the program, click here.

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