Seniors Receive 2026 Christopher Mello Award Before Rivalry High School Game

RYE, NY — A friendly rivalry deserves shared accolades, and that's just what happened before the Sound Shore's biggest sporting event of the year.

Rye High School senior Jagger Fenton and Harrison High School senior Jason Crupi were recognized as recipients of the 2026 Christopher Mello Award at Nugent Stadium on Oct. 17. The award was presented ahead of the annual Rye-Harrison football game.

Each year, the memorial scholarship is awarded to one senior from Rye High School and one senior from Harrison High School in honor of Christopher Mello, a 1994 Rye High School graduate who lost his life on Sept. 11, 2001. Recipients are selected for leadership, competitiveness and academic achievement.

This year’s honorees were recognized for leadership, character and commitment. Fenton is a three-year starter and varsity co-captain for the Rye Garnets. He has also remained involved with Rye’s youth football program and plans to continue his football career at Holy Cross next year.

Crupi is a two-year captain for the Harrison Huskies. He has earned all-section honors and was named to the LoHud Super 11. The award ceremony placed both students in front of one of the area’s longstanding high school football rivalries.

The scholarship increased this year to $7,500 for each recipient to support their education. The annual award ties athletic achievement to academics and service by recognizing one senior from each school tied to the Rye-Harrison game.

The Rye City School District congratulated Fenton and Crupi on receiving the 2026 Christopher Mello Award and on carrying forward Mello’s legacy through their accomplishments on and off the field. T