The Manila Times

AMBASSADOR THOMAS PREDICTS NY GIANTS WIN

- BY JOSEF T. RAMOS CORRESPOND­ENT

UNITED STATES Ambassador to the Philippine­s Harry Thomas is placing his bet on the New York Giants who are set to take on the formidable New England Patriots in Super Bowl 46 on Sunday ( February 5) at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapol­is, Indiana.

“I expect my hometown team, the NY Giants to win it in a hard fought game because of their superior pass rush. It could breakdown the Patriots’ defense. It’s definitely an exciting game,” Thomas, 55, a native of Harlem New York, told The Manila Times on Wednesday.

“I believe my hometown New York Giants could win the Super Bowl this year. I’ll be the happiest man around if that happens,” Thomas added.

Wide receiver Victor Cruz is Thomas’ favorite player from the New York Giants. “He is one of the best receivers in American football and there’s no doubt about his talents,” said the ambassador.

Cruz posted a single season franchise record of 1, 536 receiving yards.

American football is America’s most popular sport. When asked if Filipinos have what it takes to play the sport, Thomas said: “Of course! Anyone can play American football. Come on over and play football with the embassy staff and Marines sometime.”

Thomas, who assumed his post as US Ambassador to the Philippine­s on April 17, 2010 is known for pushing sports diplomacy program.

“We host sports clinics in every place in America in 3D event and we host around the Philippine­s. We also had a visit last year by Ken Griffey, Jr., a retired American baseball icon. We have more plans for sports diplomacy in the works—so stay tuned,” he said.

 ?? US Ambassador to the Philippine­s Harry Thomas PHOTO BY RENE DILAN ??
US Ambassador to the Philippine­s Harry Thomas PHOTO BY RENE DILAN

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