Jackson Goldberg
GLEN RIDGE — Glen Ridge High School senior Jackson Goldberg has been nominated for USA Football’s Heart of a Giant Award presented by the Hospital for Special Surgery and the New York Giants.
Jackson believes leadership is about showing up for others and he has made that belief the foundation of his impact on the Glen Ridge community.
Last year, Jackson founded his school’s first youth flag football and leadership program, teaching 14 children ages 5-8 not only the fundamentals of football, but also teamwork, kindness, sportsmanship and confidence.
When he noticed conflict among the young players, he introduced a “Captain of the Day” award to recognize positive attitude, effort and sportsmanship, turning the program into an opportunity to build character alongside athletic skills.
Jackson’s commitment to others extends throughout his school and community. As a peer mentor, he works one-on-one with a younger student with special needs, motivated by his own experience navigating high school and wanting to provide the support he once wished he had. He also volunteers at youth football clinics, cares for disabled animals at a local sanctuary and supports fundraising efforts for local charities.
While balancing football, academics and a part-time job, Jackson has learned that discipline and responsibility create opportunity. Whether encouraging a teammate, mentoring a student or teaching a child the game he loves, Jackson consistently finds ways to lift others up —making his community stronger one connection at a time.
Ridgers to visit Lincoln
The Glen Ridge High School football team will visit Lincoln High School, of Jersey City, on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 1 p.m. at Caven Point Stadium in Jersey City.
The Ridgers are looking to bounce back from a 44-0 loss at Cedar Grove on Thursday, Sept. 10, to fall to 1-2.
Photo Courtesy of Carey Reilly
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