Commack Football Player Nominated For 2019 Heart Of A Giant Award

COMMACK, NY — It's one thing to have talent, but it's another thing to have the character to go along with it.

It's that combination that propelled Commack High School football player William Cznadel to be nominated for USA Football's Heart of a Giant Award; just one of 10 student athletes in the Tri-State area to receive the recognition this week.

The criteria of the award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and NY Giants, is commitment, teamwork, will, character and dedication. Students are nominated by their coaches.

According to a press release, Cznadel felt he didn't fit in anywhere, and that he was "the weird kid" throughout his childhood. Then he found football. He not only fit in, but he became stronger and learned important life lessons.

"I can still hear my coach’s voice yelling 'Push yourselves' and 'Don’t cheat yourself' while running the fifth one-hundred-yard sprint," Cznadel stated via press release. "Football has taught me valuable life lessons and continues to shape me into someone that others can look up to."

Cznadel wasn't born with natural athletic ability, but according to his coach, Jeff DiLorenzo, he makes up for it with his tremendous character. DiLorenzo added that his player has the respect of all his teammates and coaches, and is a valuable contributor to the team's overall mentality.

"We wish we had 40 guys with the heart and character of Will," DiLorenzo said.

Cznadel was part of the third wave of nominees. Voting for these 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.

Click here to cast your vote.

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.