A Long Island fan had quite the rollercoaster experience trying for a halftime field goal during a Jets-Patriots game. Initially invited to take part in the contest, she was disinvited, then invited back again, but ultimately missed the 30-yard kick, losing out on a $100,000 prize.
Ashley Castanio-Gervasi, 33, had gone through a tumultuous week, facing disqualification from the Kick for Cash competition. The former Stony Brook University goaltender had previously made a 20-yard kick in the tailgate area to qualify for the finals set for October. She was one of four finalists and notably the only woman, though she revealed to The Post that she was dealing with a shoulder injury.
Castanio-Gervasi had expressed her enthusiasm hours before the event, even practicing a kick from the school’s 25-yard line. However, she received news that due to an insurance clause linked to her role as the Long Beach High School girls soccer team coach, she was ineligible to compete.
After her story made headlines, there was a significant shift. ESPN’s Pat McAfee even reached out to let her know he would advocate for her to kick on “College Game Day” if the Jets did not rectify the situation.
A dedicated Jets fan, Castanio-Gervasi developed her passion through her father, Frank, a season ticket holder who passed away from esophageal cancer in 2011. She intended to donate the prize money to support her community and the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation.
Expressing her feelings leading up to the event, she stated, “I’m going to be happy to be on the field, and I’m sure my dad would be proud of me.” Even though winning would have been great, she mentioned pride in her effort was more important to her.
Despite the pressure and attention from notable figures like Adam Schefter, she remained composed. “I’ve played sports all my life so, of course, this kind of pressure is different. But I think of my dad and know he would be proud,” she reflected.
In the days leading up to her tryout, Castanio-Gervasi shared fun moments making TikTok dance videos with her family while wearing her Jets gear. On Sunday mornings, she frequented Franco’s Metro Restaurant.
Admittedly, she hadn’t physically prepared much for the event. She mentioned having a physical therapy session just before the weekend, following surgery on her non-kicking knee. “I’m just going to accept it,” she shared, “I’ll continue to be proud to participate.”
