Giants' John Mara reveals cancer diagnosis

Giants president/CEO John Mara announced on Monday that he’s been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing treatment.

Mara has overseen team operations since assuming the team presidency in 2005 and his family has owned the Giants since its inception in 1925.

“I’m feeling strong and optimistic, and I’m committed to seeing this through to a positive outcome,” Mara said in a statement. “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.”

Mara, 70, has been with the Giants since 1991 when he first joined the team as general counsel. He later became executive vice president and chief operating officer and also is the NFL’s chairman of the Management Council Executive Committee.

Mara also oversees the Giants’ day-to-day operations and is a frequent presence at the team’s training facility in East Rutherford. He also played a key role in MetLife Stadium hosting several World Cup matches next year, including the final to be held on July 19.

Mara took over as Giants president/CEO following the death of his father, Wellington, and has overseen the Giants’ two most recent Super Bowl titles following the 2007 and 2011 seasons.

The Mara family has co-owned the Giants with the Tisch family since 1991, with Steve Tisch serving as executive vice president.

In September, both families agreed to sell a 10%, non-controlling stake in the franchise to billionaire Julia Koch and her family. The deal was valued at an NFL-record $10 billion and must be approved by the NFL owners, which could happen at their next meeting in October.

By Evan Barnes

evan.barnes@newsday.comevan_b

Evan Barnes covers the Giants for Newsday. He previously covered the Brooklyn Nets, Memphis football and the Memphis Grizzlies and also covered prep sports in Los Angeles.