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After being nominated by head football Coach Fred DiCarlo earlier this year, Schultz earned more votes than the nine other standout high school athletes nominated in the tri-state area in week four of the competition; making him one of six finalists competing for the prestigious award that is sponsored in part by the New York Giants.
The “Heart of a Giant” award is “based on an athlete’s demonstration of commitment, dedication, will, character and teamwork. Candidates must possess a strong work ethic, leadership skills, the desire to succeed both on the field and in the classroom and the ability to inspire others to work together to achieve a common goal.”
As one of six finalists, Schultz earned a $1,500 equipment grant for the high school. If he is named the grand prize winner, an additional $3,500 grant will be donated to the football program.
In a submission video that was part of the application process, friends, family, teammates and district officials praised Schultz for his accomplishments as an athlete, student and person on and off the field.
"He's a monster athlete, just a big kid with great athletic skill, that's the first thing I noticed before I really got to know him," Eastchester High School Athletic Director Jason Karol said. "Now that I've gotten to know him, it's clear that he's more than just a great athlete, he's also an amazing person."
Schultz was praised for his individual accomplishments on the field, but was also praised as an extraordinary teammate who only cares about winning.
" He's a really good team player, he just wants to win," his father, Dan, said. "As much as he wants to succeed, I think he enjoys it just as much when his teammates succeed. He's the first one to run into the end zone when you score or to pat you on the back when you drop the ball."
In his nomination letter, Schultz – who also stars on the basketball team – was asked which of those characteristics he most embodied.
“Commitment is defined as the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity,” he wrote. “I love the game of football. I am committed to the game of football. I started playing in seventh grade and the sport has taught me determination, discipline, responsibility and what it takes to be a leader.”
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