Fernando Mendoza’s rise from overlooked prospect to Heisman winner and likely NFL No. 1 pick

Boxing and baseball have long been the most common sports in Cuban communities. Fernando Mendoza, born in Miami and the grandson of Cuban immigrants, chose a different path: American football – a decision that has carried him to the top of college football and positioned him as the leading candidate to be the No. 1 pick in next year’s NFL Draft.

The quarterback for theIndiana Hoosiersled his team to an undefeated season and the national championship after beating theMiami Hurricanes. He also claimed theHeisman Trophy, given to the best player in college football. Mendoza finished the regular season with 2,980 passing yards, 33 touchdown passes and six interceptions.

Although he has lived his entire life in the United States, Mendoza is proud of his Cuban roots through his grandparents, who taught him the value of perseverance and hard work – principles he applies every day. He says he admires Cuba’s sporting tradition in other disciplines, but wants to inspire island communities to embrace American football as well.

“My idea was to be able to broaden the horizon and show different Cuban communities that it’s not only about boxing and baseball – sports we excel in and that I love,” he said in an interview with CNN. “I really enjoy watching those sports, but we can also play football and any other discipline we choose.”

History with the Heisman

By winning the Heisman, Mendoza matched Jim Plunkett, who has Mexican roots, as the only Latino players to have captured college football’s most prestigious individual award. “It’s definitely a huge honor to be part of the conversation, especially alongside so many great players from the past and great players in the conversation now,”he said. “I’ve always trusted my team and myself. Now I’m just trying to take it one game at a time, one practice at a time, so I have a clear vision to reach my biggest goals.”

Finally, in his acceptance speech, Mendoza paid tribute to his family, singling out his grandparents. “For the love and sacrifice of my parents and grandparents – I love you so much. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

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