Gia Asan Nominated for Heart of a Giant Award

Scarsdale’s Gia Asan has been nominated to receive the 2025 USA Football Heart of a Giant Award, presented by Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and the New York Giants. These outstanding Tri-State area high school students have all been nominated for the award by their coaches for their commitment, teamwork, will, character, and dedication on and off the field.

The voting period is open through October 19 and you can vote here:

The nominee with the most votes will be named that week’s finalist. At the conclusion of the six-week process, there will be a total of 11 honorees (six weekly finalists and five honorable mentions) recognized for their work ethic and character. Each finalist will receive a $1,000 equipment grant for their high school football program, with the grand prize winner earning an additional $9,000 grant for their school and being honored on the field at a future Giants game this season.

Selection of the grand prize winner will be based on video submissions explaining why they have the Heart of a Giant. 

USA Football, Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants are partnering to present the Heart of a Giant award for a 12th consecutive year. In that time, this award program has since expanded to highlight not only high school tackle football players, but all Tri-State high school flag football athletes, student managers or student mascots who demonstrate a relentless work ethic and unmatched love for the game.

Gia Asen, a junior at Scarsdale High School, is a dual-sport athlete who has excelled as both a flag football and soccer standout. On the football field, she earned All-Section and All-League honors, playing both offense and defense during her team’s undefeated run to the state championship. Her season was cut short after being hospitalized with a rare blood clot, but she showed remarkable resilience by stepping into a leadership role as team manager, keeping statistics and motivating teammates from the sidelines.

In soccer, Gia serves as a captain and has been recognized with All-Section and All-League honors, while also competing at a high level in club soccer, where she has participated in national and regional Girls Academy Talent ID programs. Off the field, she gives back through volunteer work with Lifting Up Westchester, where she has spent summers supporting children in need and encouraging peers to join her in service. Known for her leadership, positivity, and commitment, Gia continues to inspire her teammates and community through her perseverance and example.

Cast your vote here: