William Floyd Football Star Nominee For 'Heart Of A Giant' Award

MASTIC BEACH, NY — He is a true example of the American dream realized.

The words were echoed by those who nominated Stiven Ayala, a senior at Wiliam Floyd High School, for USA Football's "Heart of A Giant" award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants.

"Honoring high school athletes who inspire on and off the field," a website about the award states, explaining the honor."This award program seeks to find and highlight tri-state high school players who demonstrate that extra something special. The ones that have a relentless work ethic and unmatched love for the game. Values like commitment, character, teamwork, dedication and will are crucial every season. But in times like this, they matter even more. When your players can't be side by side, when they don't take the fields on Friday nights, who helps keep the team together? That's who we're looking for. High school football may look different this year, but your athletes who inspire greatness both on and off the field still deserve the recognition."

Stiven, USA Football said in a release: "is a true example of the American dream."

The Ayala family immigrated from El Salvador when he was 14 years old. He entered Paca Middle School not speaking a word of English and not having any idea what American football was all about, the release said, adding, "Ayala has come a long way since then."

District officials sang Stiven's praises. “The football locker room is a place where those of all races and creeds enter as individuals and leave as one to accomplish a team goal. Stiven has entered that locker room and has become a vital member, accomplishing team goals,” said William Floyd High School’s head football coach Paul Longo. "Ayala is projected to go on and attend college and play the game of football, which he began playing in the seventh grade."

The voting period for nominees is open until October 18 at 11:59 p.m. with the final vote tally determining who will be named the group’s finalist.

Overall, there will be 11 total finalists and each finalist will receive $1,000 for their high school’s football program, with the grand prize winner’s school getting an additional $4,000. The grand prize winner will be selected based on video submissions stating why they have the Heart of a Giant.

For more information on the program, click here.