STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — When it came time for nominating one of his players for the prestigious Heart of a Giant Award for Week No. 6, Tottenville head coach Brian Neville knew one of his players would fit the bill.

The honor, sponsored by USA Football and the New York Giants, was created to recognize players who “demonstrate a relentless work ethic and unmatched love for the game.”

And Pirate fullback/tight end Robert Brisk was someone who exemplified all those qualities when you consider his personal life was a lot tougher than others.

After losing his father to addiction at age five and being raised by his grandparents while managing a complicated relationship with his mother, he has overcome significant challenges that have shaped his strength and character.

Brisk himself shared the type of character that he’s built through playing football, sharing that, “Losing my father at a young age is something I’ve never forgotten. Some days are easier than others, but football has been the one constant that helps me through my struggles.”

“The energy of practices and games, and the support of my teammates and coaches, allow me to block out the hard times and keep moving forward.”

And Neville said Brisk is a pleasure to coach.

“Robert is a program guy,” he began.

“He shows up every day, works hard and does whatever is needed to help the team each and every week,” he continued. “Personally, Robert is kind, polite and selfless. It’s a pleasure to coach him and watch him develop as a player, but more importantly as a person over the past four years.”

Brisk, a senior at the Luten Avenue school, has been an important contributor to the Pirates’ undefeated season. He is especially noted for his strong work ethic on the field, a quality recognized by his coach.

Despite the aforementioned challenges, Brisk has not only emerged as a leader for the Pirates but also excelled academically, earning a place on Tottenville’s Honor Roll and passing the Algebra 1 Regents exam ahead of schedule.

“In the classroom, I participate in discussions and encourage classmates to share their ideas. I make it a priority to help others when they’re struggling, whether with homework or understanding a lesson. By staying responsible, respectful, and prepared, I try to set a standard that motivates my peers to stay focused as well.”

Brisk is the second Islander in as many weeks to be nominated for the Heart of a Giant Award. Last week, McKee/Staten Island Tech’s Lymeek Moton was one of the Week 5 nominees from all over the Metropolitan region.

The Heart of a Giant program runs over six weeks, with a new group of nominees introduced each week. The nominee with the most votes during their respective week is named a finalist. By the end of the process, 11 student-athletes — six finalists and five honorable mentions — will be recognized for their dedication, character, and work ethic.

Each weekly finalist earns a $1,000 equipment grant for their school’s football program. One grand prize winner, chosen from the group of finalists, will receive an additional $9,000 grant and be honored on the field at an upcoming New York Giants game.

Voting for Brisk’s group closes on Oct. 26, and support from the Staten Island community could help him earn a spot as a finalist. To learn more about the award or cast your vote, visit usafootball.com.

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