A teen from the Bronx who was born with a severe case of glaucoma received special recognition from the NYPD on Monday.

Dominic Melendez is the 41st Precinct's captain of the NYPD Blue Chips football team.

He was given the police department's sportsmanship award at police headquarters in Manhattan after he led the team to victory in the citywide championship this weekend.

The NYPD says the teen from Mott Haven defies all odds, standing out as one of the Blue Chips league’s best players.

The players in the Blue Chips league are teens from all over the five boroughs and the coaches are NYPD police officers.

Melendez has diminished his sight in his right eye to the point where he can only see shadows.

Doctors recently told Melendez he could not participate on his senior year varsity football team, but he did not let that hold him back. He was cleared to play flag football and took over as the 41st Precinct's team captain.

This weekend, Melendez and his team won the citywide championship.

“I feel amazing. Blessed to be able to win an award and showcase my talents for it. It feels like a dream come true,” he says. "

NYPD Chief Juanita Holmes adds, “When you speak about dedication, perseverance, leadership, I mean he epitomizes all of it, all three."

Other players were also awarded for improving their communities by volunteering.