East Rutherford, NJ – The New York Giants and Gatorade have selected Mr. Brendan Miller of Bridgeport Central High School (Bridgeport, CT) as the Lou Rettino High School Coach of the Week for Week 3 of the 2025 season. The Hilltoppers defeated the Wilbur Cross Governors 21-8 at Kennedy Stadium in their opening game of the year. In doing so, they put an end to a 61-game losing streak that began in 2017. It was the longest active streak in the state, and one loss short of the Connecticut record for consecutive losses. This game was the sole focus of the players and coaches all summer long, and today the Bridgeport Central Hilltoppers are undefeated and looking forward to their opportunity to play again this week against the Bassick Lions.
The Lou Rettino High School Football Coach of the Week Award is part of the Giants' continuing effort to support local high school football programs. The Giants elected to name the award in memory of former Union High School (NJ) coach, Lou Rettino, for his fine commitment to the game of football, his community, and the betterment of his athletes' lives. Each week during the high school football season, the Giants selected one area high school head coach as the Coach of the Week winner. The selection is based on the coach's continuing commitment towards promoting youth football, developing motivated student-athletes, and contributing overall to their community.
In recognition of Coach Miller's selection as Coach of the Week, a $2,000 check will be granted to the school's football program from The Giants Foundation and Gatorade. He will also receive a certificate of recognition signed by Giants head coach Brian Daboll and will be honored at a dinner following the season, as well as at a 2026 pre-season home game.
Coach Miller works as a PE teacher at Bridgeport Central High School and is in his third year as head coach of the football team. Coach Miller also works with all athletic teams throughout the year as the strength and conditioning coach and works tirelessly to do what is in the best interest of all student athletes and Bridgeport Central.
"I am honored to receive the New York Giants Lou Rettino Coach of the Week Award," said Miller. "Some of my favorite memories growing up were watching the Giants play every Sunday with my father. I could not be more appreciative of the recognition from such a well-respected organization. While this award may be in my name it is more appropriate to be a team award. Without the support of my fiancé, Nicole, my incredible coaching staff, and the young men I have had the privilege to work with, this accolade would not be possible. This is an award to Bridgeport Central and all the players past and present that helped develop the appropriate culture to succeed on and off the field. I could not be prouder of how far we have come, and I look forward to seeing how we can continue to grow as a family.
"For the past 3 years, Coach Miller has dedicated his time to building the football program while working with athletes through conditioning, weight training, and skill training," said Athletic Director Oran Spencer. "Coach Miller's time, dedication, and care for his athletes' is his priority and it is paying off."
"We are so proud of Coach Miller and the entire program," said Paul Catuccio, City Wide Athletic Director. "The staff has come together and are working toward a common goal. Their approach to the game has impacted the student athletes, and it is exciting to see teammates support each other and experience success. Bridgeport Central is fortunate to have Coach Miller as a teacher and coach."
"The entire Central High School Community is very proud to celebrate Coach Miller on receiving this honor from the New York Giants," said Dr. Eric Graf, Principal of Bridgeport Central HS. "This prestigious recognition reflects the hard work and dedication that he and his staff have put in with the team. Coach Miller is committed to rebuilding Central football and we are looking forward to seeing the program develop in the years to come."
