Morristown High's QB/Linebacker Up For NY Giants Award

Sophomore Marcello Cervone says he fell in love with football within the first minute of playing it.

By Jack Slocum, Patch Staff

Oct 6, 2026 2:20 PM EDT

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown High School's quarterback is up for a major award from the New York Giants.

Sophomore Marcello Cervone, who doubles as the Colonials' linebacker, is in the running for the USA Football Heart of a Giant Award. The award, presented by the Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants, recognizes high school athletes from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut who "demonstrate an unparalleled work ethic and passion for the game of football."

The students are nominated for the award by their coaches. Nominees then fill out questionnaires about goals, achievements, and more on and off the football field.

When asked which Heart of a Giant characteristic best describes him — courage, team leadership, or achievement despite adversity — Marcello picked courage.

"I picked courage because I have learned to step up when my team needs me, even when I'm facing pressure and uncertainty," he said. "Instead of being intimidated by this year's challenge of being a 2-way varsity starter, I embraced the opportunity and put in immense work in the offseason to try and be a key part of our team. I stepped out of my comfort zone in order to help my team succeed."

Marcello says he first became interested in football while watching his older brother play as a young child. He says once he was old enough, he began playing flag football before joining his local recreation tackle team.

"The minute I played my first game, I realized that football was my sport," he said. "I fell in love with the contact and the adrenaline rush when making a big play"

Marcello is one of 20 student athletes up for the award this year. Users can learn more about the nominees and vote once every 24 hours online here.

Eleven finalists will receive a $1,000 equipment grant for their high school football programs. The winner will get $10,000 for their school's football program, as well as a USA Football Heart of a Giant trophy presented on the field during a NY Giants' home game in December.