New York Jet Tony Richardson (c) and entrepreneur Rich
Donovan (r) announce "Be A Champion" contest at
JHS 167 in Manhattan
They're both excelled in their careers, and now New York Jets fullback Tony Richardson and Lime Connect founder Rich Donovan are trying to inspire students with disabilities to set big goals of their own.
The two teamed up at Junior High School 167 this week to launch "Be A 
Champion," a citywide essay contest for students with disabilities. They told a group of 30 students about the importance of education and encouraged them to follow their dreams.
“I just want to say, go get them," Richardson said. “Whatever it is in life that you want to do, it starts today and it starts with education.”
“Tony is an amazing person who let us know we can be champions," a sixth-grader, Vincent, said. "We can go on and not be afraid to be anything we want to be and go out and pursue our dreams.”
Donovan, whose organization connects people with disabilities with job opportunities, has cerebral palsy. He told students how his disability hasn't prevented him from succeeding.
“I’m impressed by Rich, he’s incredible,” an eighth grader, Tom, said. “He told us about his life and how he studied hard.”
"Be A Champion" essays must be submitted by October 24 to BeAChampion@schools.nyc.gov or mailed to New York City Department of Education, Office of Special Education Initiative, 52 Chambers Street, NY, NY 10007.
If you have a story about a NYC school or student, e-mail us at MyStory@schools.nyc.gov .
Please include a photo with your story. Photos of students require a signed media consent form , which you can fax to (212) 374-5584.