After stints with the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions, former Holy Cross H.S., Flushing, football standout Kevin Ogletree, pictured above left, recently signed with the New York Giants.

The 2005 graduate played two varsity seasons with the Knights and helped the team capture the 2004 CHSFL ‘AA’ championship his senior year.

The St. Albans native went on the play his college football at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, before signing with the Cowboys in 2009. He said he’s excited to be playing so close to home.

“From the practice field, we can see the city skyline,” Ogletree said. “It’s great when you get to do what you love and have your home in the background.”

Ogletree said he has taken the lessons he learned under longtime varsity football coach Tom Pugh, pictured above right, with him in his NFL career.

“Coach Pugh was very inspirational not only in my athletic career but also in evolving me into the man I am now,” he said. “He teaches fundamentals but also discipline and toughness … you’re going to need those tools in the real world.”

In October, Ogletree came back to Holy Cross for two games and must have been the good luck charm, as the Knights rattled off victories over St. Francis Prep, Fresh Meadows, and Chaminade H.S., Mineola, L.I.