The New York Jets have performed a dramatic U-turn, reinstating a lifelong fan to a high-stakes $100,000 halftime field-goal contest following a significant public backlash. The team announced the reversal on Friday, just days before their final home game of the season.
Controversial Disqualification Sparks Outcry
Ashley Castanio-Gervasi, a 33-year-old high-school soccer coach from Long Island, had earned her spot in the 'Kick for Cash' promotion by successfully making a 20-yard field goal at a Jets tailgate event in October. However, earlier this week, she was informed she was ineligible due to her status as a coach.
The Jets cited insurance rules that prohibit current or recent coaches in sports like soccer, football, or rugby from participating. Castanio-Gervasi stated she had been transparent about her coaching background during the qualification process and was blindsided by the last-minute disqualification.
The decision quickly became a trending topic on social media, drawing criticism from former Jets star Damien Woody, who called it a "bad look" for the organisation, and California congressman Eric Swalwell.
A Personal Quest and a Public Reversal
For Castanio-Gervasi, the contest held profound personal significance. She planned to attempt the kick in memory of her father, Frank, a devoted Jets fan who died of esophageal cancer in 2011. The family has raised tens of thousands for cancer causes in his honour.
Facing the disqualification, she had decided to skip Sunday's game against the New England Patriots, despite offers of merchandise and gift cards from the team. The widespread uproar forced the Jets to reconsider.
"We realized there was an unfortunate misunderstanding regarding Ashley’s eligibility for the contest," the team said in a statement. "In an effort to remedy the situation, we are allowing her to kick this Sunday for an opportunity to win the prize."
Final Chance at a Life-Changing Kick
The reinstatement means Castanio-Gervasi will join three other finalists during halftime at MetLife Stadium this Sunday. The $100,000 prize, sponsored by Hellmann's, is described as "life-changing" by the fan, who intends to use any winnings towards a home and cancer charities.
She is currently recovering from knee surgery on her non-kicking leg but has confirmed she will participate as scheduled. The exact distance of the final kick has not been publicly disclosed.
The controversy provided an unexpected spotlight for the Jets, who enter the game with a disappointing 3-12 record, placing them last in the AFC East division. The episode concludes with the fan and several family members now planning to attend the game, her chance at glory—and a significant cash prize—rightfully restored.
