In a dramatic reversal, the New York Jets have reinstated a devoted fan for a chance at a life-changing $100,000 field goal after initially disqualifying her due to a controversial rules interpretation.
From Tailgate to Halftime Show
The story begins in September outside MetLife Stadium. Ashley Castanio-Gervasi, a 33-year-old math teacher and diehard Jets season-ticket holder, was kicking a football at a tailgate. Her skill, honed as a former Stony Brook University goalkeeper, caught the eye of Jets staff, who promptly invited her to participate in the team's "Kick for Cash" halftime contest.
Castanio-Gervasi, who attends games in honour of her late father, eagerly accepted. She began practicing, confident in her ability to make the kick for the substantial prize.
A Sudden and Confusing Disqualification
However, in a move that felt like a cruel plot twist, the Jets pulled her from the competition on Monday, December 23, 2024. The organization informed her she was ineligible because she is a high school soccer coach.
"This was the first time I was hearing of any of these (coaching) questions," Castanio-Gervasi told the New York Post. She was blindsided by the decision, stating the prize money would be "life-changing" and that she was confident she could have made the kick.
The contest rules indeed prohibited recent players and coaches from Olympic, college, and high school soccer, rugby, and football teams. Yet, the application of this rule to a fan discovered at a tailgate sparked immediate criticism and confusion.
The Jets' Holiday Reversal
Facing public backlash, the Jets organization performed an about-face. On Friday, December 26, 2025, they issued a statement to The Post announcing her reinstatement.
"We realized there was an unfortunate misunderstanding regarding Ashley’s eligibility for the contest," the Jets stated. "In an effort to remedy the situation, we are allowing her to kick this Sunday for an opportunity to win the prize. We value the passion and loyalty of our fans and are committed to creating memorable experiences."
The dramatic shift means Castanio-Gervasi will now get her moment on the field during halftime of the Jets versus New England Patriots game on Sunday, December 29, 2025. Contestants do not learn the exact kicking distance until the competition begins.
For the 3–12 Jets, a team that has struggled mightily on the field this season, the episode offered a chance to score a public relations victory by correcting a perceived wrong. All eyes will now be on Ashley Castanio-Gervasi as she lines up for a kick that could indeed change her life.
