By Jackson Heil ’17   

Every week of the high school football season, USA Football elects a player to receive the Heart of a Giant Award.  The honor, which is sponsored by the New York Giants and the Hospital for Special Surgery, is granted to players in the tri­-state area who demonstrate an undying work ethic and an unmatched passion for football.

Nominees must demonstrate commitment, teamwork, character, and perseverance.  Furthermore, they must also have used football to overcome adversity they have faced in their lives.

In the third week of the season, Chaminade senior James Errante was one of ten players placed on the ballot for the award.  

Although Errante was humble about being nominated by head coach Kevin Dolan ’85, he understands how impactful the award could prove to be not only for himself, but more importantly for Chaminade.

“The award means a lot to me,” Errante explained.  “It’s huge not just for me, but it also brings some more light to the football program we have here at Chaminade.”

The senior linebacker has faced adversity throughout his life.  While most football players see adversity as making a tackle or playing while tired, Errante realizes that these are just minor obstacles.  His battle with Type I Diabetes has helped him fight through tough conditions on and off the field.

“I was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes at the age of one, and it is something that I must live with for the rest of my life,” the linebacker told USA Football.  “Football taught me discipline in my body and helped me learn that I must take care of myself if I want to be the best athlete and teammate I can be.”

By humbling himself, Errante has assumed the role of a leader.  “I try to set an example on and off the field.  When I’m out on the practice field, I do my best to encourage my teammates to go out and make plays.  Then, when I’m in the classroom, I always push my teammates to hit the books and be good classmates.”

Errante is one of the captains of the football team and controls the middle of the field at the linebacker position.  He will look to help the Flyers take off after a slow 2-2 start to the season.

To vote for James, visit http://www2.usafootball.com/poll_management/userpoll/10 and find him under Week 3.