New York Giants owner John Mara reflected on his battle with cancer as he delivered an emotional postgame speech to his players.
The Giants secured a stunning 34-17 win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night thanks to a brilliant performance from rookie QB Jaxson Dart.
As a result, the Giants got back to winning ways, having lost to the Saints a week prior, and moved their record to 2-4 for the season.
Mara headed down to the locker room after the shock victory over the reigning Super Bowl champions and delivered a passionate speech to his players.
He said: ‘I got two things to say. One, ͏I’m telling you all the chemo and all the radiation in the world͏ doesn’t ͏have the same effect as this.
‘And the next ͏thing I’ll say is, see͏ you on Monday.͏’
Giants owner John Mara spoke on his cancer battle as he delivered a postgame speech
New York Giants president and CEO Mara (right) revealed he is battling cancer last month
Mara’s words were met with rapturous applause and plenty of cheers from the Giants players and coaching staff.
Mara only revealed, publicly, that he was battling cancer at the end of last month.
The 70-year-old, whose family owns 50 per cent of the franchise, released a statement, insisting he feels ‘strong and optimistic’ despite his diagnosis.
‘I have recently been diagnosed with cancer and have been following the treatment plan recommended by an outstanding team of doctors,’ the statement read.
‘I’m feeling strong and optimistic, and I’m committed to seeing this through to a positive outcome.
‘I plan to remain active with the team throughout my treatment, and I’m fortunate to be surrounded by incredible support – personally, professionally, and medically.
‘I ask that you respect my privacy and my family’s privacy at this time.’
The Mara family has held ownership rights of the Giants since John’s grandfather, Tim Mara, founded the team in 1925.
John Mara officially took over the Giants from his father, Wellington, following his death in October 2005. Both Wellington and Tim Mara succumbed to cancer.
The 70-year-old, pictured with head coach Brian Daboll, insists he feels ‘strong and optimistic’
John, 70, first joined the family business in 1991 as a lawyer. That same year, the Maras sold 50 percent of the team to the Tisch family.
Mara currently co-owns the Giants with Steve Tisch, 76, who inherited his portion of the franchise from his father, Bob.
Under their stewardship, the Giants have won their third (2007) and fourth (2011) Super Bowl crowns.
According to NJ.com, Mara still reports to the team’s training facility near MetLife Stadium every day. He is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations and has no plans to step down despite his diagnosis.
