Steve Smith - 2009 Hope D Johnson BBI Giant of the Year

Congratulations to Steve Smith, BBI Giant of the Year!

First, Eric, Gary, Tim (nittmo), and I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported this effort. This year came down to two candidates and the result was in doubt all week.

In the end, however, wide receiver Steve Smith edged out quarterback Eli Manning to win the award. Of a total of 787 votes cast by registered and confirmed members of the site, Smith received 389 votes and Manning received 330 votes. Others receiving votes were Terrell Thomas (17), Kevin Boss (16); Tom Coughlin (12); Hakeem Nicks (6); David Diehl (6); Chris Snee (5); Shaun O’Hara (3); and Mathias Kiwanuka (3).

Steve has reached out to BBI and provided a statement that I want to share here:

“In our game, individual recognition is the result of teamwork. I am humbled that BBI has chosen me as its Giant of the Year, but I wouldn’t even be a candidate if it weren’t for our entire offense, especially Eli. So I am thankful, and I am honored to be the first recipient after the award has been re-named in the memory of Hope, whose spirit and passion for the Giants embodied what being a Giants fan and being a member of BBI is all about. Hope was a great ambassador for the Giants, and it’s fitting this award should be in her name.”

Again, thank you to Gary for setting up the poll and keeping this years' vote to registered and verified members of the Corner Forum; to Tim for coordinating with the Giants throughout, and to Eric because it's his site and I have to thank him (grin!)

Most of all, thanks to all of you.