Montville Football Player Nominated For Heart Of A Giant Award

MONTVILLE, NJ — A Montville High School football player has been nominated for having a "heart of a Giant," demonstrating commitment, character, teamwork and dedication both on and off the field.

Reese Martinelli, of Montville, has proven he has those qualities, and is now nominated for the Heart Of A Giant Award, presented by the Hospital For Special Surgery and the New York Giants. The award honors outstanding athletes for their character.

"Martinelli credits his late grandmother with instilling in him a strong work ethic and a strong understanding of perseverance while she battled stage-four lung cancer. Reese has translated these traits into his personal efforts on the gridiron as a hard working member of the Montville football program.," his nomination says. (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts.)

"My favorite thing about football is coming out with a win on Friday night. The energy our school brings to the stadium is unreal. I love how making a big play or big hit changes the flow game. I love all my teammates and coaches and will do anything for them. Coming out with the win just shows me how all the hard work in the offseason pays off tremendously," Martinelli told USA Football.

Six nominated finalists receive $1,500 for their football program. One grand prize winner will be honored on the field at a Giants game (you can read more about it here).

The award is coach-nominated but fan voted. Click here to view all nominees and vote.

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