Gritty HS Football Player From South Orange-Maplewood Earns ‘Heart Of Giant’ Nomination

SOUTH ORANGE-MAPLEWOOD, NJ — A high school football player from the South Orange-Maplewood Public School District has been nominated for a prestigious 2026 "Heart of a Giant Award."

Dylan Smith of Columbia High School recently earned a nomination for USA Football's annual award, which is presented by the Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants.

Subscribe

The award spotlights high school athletes in the Tri-State Area who demonstrate a "relentless work ethic and unmatched love for the game." Players are nominated by their coaches for their commitment, teamwork, willpower, character and dedication – on and off the field.

Smith was nominated as part of the Week 6 players. Voting will be open until Nov. 1. Fans can vote online here.

Here's what earned this ambitious local athlete a nomination, organizers said:

"Dylan Smith exemplifies courage through his perseverance, leadership, and commitment to serving others. After suffering a serious on-field injury last season that required hospitalization and threatened his football future, Dylan worked hard to return to the field with renewed determination. Now a senior and first-year starter, his teammates recognized his character and dedication by electing him captain before he had earned a starting position. As an undersized lineman, Dylan may not always receive the spotlight, but he consistently puts his team first, encourages teammates through difficult workouts, and supports younger players. His leadership extends beyond football through volunteering at his church's food pantry and completing more than 40 hours of community service. An Honor Roll student and National Honor Society member, Dylan also balances academics with varsity football and track and field. Through his resilience, humility, and selflessness, Dylan demonstrates what it truly means to have the Heart of a Giant."

"I first got involved in football when I was younger because I wanted to try something new and be part of a team," Smith wrote as part of his submission to the contest.

"As I continued playing, football became much more than just a sport to me," Smith added. "It became a place where I built friendships, learned discipline, and became more comfortable working with others."

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.