Through Unwavering Faith, Fernando Mendoza Brings His Decorated College Career Home
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Father Patrick Hyde of Saint Paul Church on Indiana University's campus paused his busy Christmas Eve schedule to welcome Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, a parishioner who wanted to share his achievement with the priests who supported him.
- Mendoza, a Cuban-American quarterback, has become a beloved figure due to his talent, humility, strong faith, and connection to the Saint Paul parish community, inspiring many beyond the football field.
- Overlooked by major college programs initially, Mendoza's journey from a lightly recruited high school player to a Heisman Trophy winner and NFL prospect highlights his perseverance and development through coaching at Cal and Indiana.
- At Indiana, Mendoza thrived under the guidance of coaches who helped him improve his skills and confidence, leading the Hoosiers
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