Giants To Honor Group Of Teachers, Parents, Students From Sandy Hook Elementary
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) - A contingent of teachers, parents and students from Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., will be honored before Sunday's Giants game against the Eagles at MetLife Stadium.
Head coach Tom Coughlin said that he made a point of telling the team about it on Friday.
"I spoke to the team this morning about that, and what it really means to all of us is we were so taken back and so shocked and felt so badly for the families," Coughlin said. "Not only the families of the children, but the families of the principal and the school psychologist, the real heroes who knew exactly what was coming and still charged and attacked and knew what the outcome would be. And it's Giants country, and we know that."
Approximately 200 students will be in attendance -- they will also stay to watch the game -- and an equal number of parents and faculty members will join them. 50 Wounded Warriors will also be honored.
The Sandy Hook crew, the Wounded Warriors and players and coaches from both teams will form a circle on the field for the National Anthem. A moment of silence will also be held prior to kickoff.
"It means a great deal to us and we would certainly like to honor them," Coughlin said. "And the best we can do is take each individual and play to the best of his ability, and make a statement as a team as well. We're not alone in our passion and empathy for the school and for their lost loved ones. I'm sure the entire country feels that way, but it's special for us to have them here this weekend."
Victor Cruz said he spoke to the Pinto family last week, whom he visited shortly after they buried their six-year-old son, Jack, in the receiver's jersey.
"I think it's great, I think it's awesome," said Cruz. "I spoke to the Pinto family last week just to check up on them and they're coming along well. They're going to be at the game also, so I'm excited to see them again. I think it's just good for them to get away a little bit and spend some time on a Sunday afternoon watching some football, getting their minds off things a little bit."
Fantastic to see the Giants contributing and doing their part in helping the healing process. Sound off with your thoughts and comments below...
(TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
