West Orange Teen Was Told He'd Never Walk—Now He Plays High School Football

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A high school football player from West Orange has been nominated for a prestigious “Heart of a Giant Award.”

Connor Friedman, a sophomore at West Orange 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.

Now entering its 12th straight year, 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.

Friedman was nominated as part of the Week 6 players. Voting will be open until Oct. 26. Fans can vote for him online here.

Here’s what earned Friedman a nomination, organizers said:

"Connor Friedman, a sophomore at West Orange High School, has overcome challenges that once seemed impossible. Born with a lower leg deformity, doctors told his parents he would never walk — but today, he competes as a wide receiver and defensive back while playing with a prosthetic leg. Connor’s relentless work ethic and refusal to accept special treatment make him a true inspiration to his teammates and coaches. Off the field, he demonstrates leadership as a Boy Scout, volunteering his time to clean parks, support children’s causes, and help the homeless. In the classroom, he maintains strong academics, including a streak of straight A’s, and is recognized for his storytelling and writing achievements. His courage, perseverance, and positivity shine through in every aspect of his life, proving that no obstacle is too great to overcome."

"I first got involved in football because I wanted to prove that my physical disability didn’t define me," Friedman wrote as part of his submission to the contest.

"I needed to show myself and others that I was stronger than my appearance or limitations," Friedman continued. "From that moment, football became not just a sport, but a way to prove my courage."

Here’s what comes next, organizers said:

“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.”

Previous winners and nominees from Essex County have included:

NJ Teen Wins ‘Heart Of A Giant Award,’ Overcomes Mother’s Death, Surgery

For this local teen, who has excelled on the football field and in the classroom despite his mother’s death, surgery and other adversities, 2021 will be the year he truly showed he has the “Heart of a Giant.”

Essex County Teen Battles Depression To Win ‘Heart Of Giant’ Award

Football changed this Essex County teen’s life. Now, the gridiron standout is inspiring his community with his love for the game.

Essex County Football Player, 'Role Model,' Nominated For 'Giant' Award

A high school football player from the Oranges managed to keep a "positive attitude" – even as his family faced a devastating home fire.

HS Football Player From The Caldwells Nominated For ‘Giant’ Award

This Essex County teen has proven that he has the "heart of a Giant." Now, the rest of the Tri-State Area needs to know it.

Football Standout In Essex County Is Up For ‘Heart Of Giant’ Award

An Essex County teen’s apartment was destroyed in a fire, leaving him and his family homeless. During this time, he only missed one day of school.

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.