Jets Issue Statement, Say Fan Will Be Allowed to Participate In $100K Kicking Contest

The New York Jets are walking back their decision to remove one fan from a $100,000 kicking contest at halftime of Sunday's game against the New England Patriots.

"We realized there was an unfortunate misunderstanding regarding Ashley's eligibility for the contest," the team said Friday. "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 Jets initially told the New York Post's Alex Mitchell that Ashley Castanio-Gervasi was deemed ineligible, citing a rule prohibiting any "soccer, rugby, and football" coaches from taking part.

"In accordance with competition rules and regulations, one individual who successfully made the qualifying kick will not be able to advance to the final stage of the challenge," the team said.

"We understand the disappointment associated with this and have made an effort to provide an alternative benefit to show our appreciation."

Castanio-Gervasi said a Jets employee first spotted her kicking at a tailgate event and encouraged her to compete at a qualifying contest in October. She connected on a 20-yard field in order to earn a place in Sunday's showcase.

Castanio-Gervasi played college soccer at Stony Brook and told Mitchell she disclosed that fact to the Jets from the outset. She was under the impression that nothing was amiss until this week

"This was the first time I was hearing of any of these [coaching] questions," she said.

Castanio-Gervasi, who has Jets season tickets, told Mitchell the $100,000 prize would be "life-changing money for me."

She said the Jets, after finding her to be ineligible for the halftime event, offered to give her a custom jersey and a $100 Visa gift card. She intended to skip Sunday's game altogether but will presumably be on hand now.