A few weeks into his first season of tackle football, a young Fernando Mendoza wanted to quit. The 10-year-old Cuban-American, who occasionally stuttered, struggled to connect with teammates and was buried on the quarterback depth chart for the South Miami Grey Ghosts.
His parents, Fernando and Elsa, insisted he finish what he started. That decision taught him to overcome obstacles and paved the way for one of football's most remarkable underdog tales.
The same kid who began as QB4 blossomed into college football's best player, leading long-struggling Indiana to its first national title and winning the Heisman Trophy. Now, he is the overwhelming favorite to be the first player selected in the NFL Draft, likely joining the Las Vegas Raiders, partly owned by his idol, Tom Brady.
His early coaches envisioned him as a defensive end, but Mendoza was determined to play quarterback. Despite initial shyness and a tough environment, encouragement from his family and a trainer fueled his fire. "You've got to make your own chance," he was told.
His breakthrough came mid-season when the starting quarterback struggled. Mendoza stepped up, remembered the plays, and showed toughness and leadership. He led the Grey Ghosts to an 11-1 record, falling in love with the game and his team in the process.
Despite being under-recruited in high school, Mendoza's work ethic never wavered. A late offer from Cal launched his college career, where he evolved from a two-star recruit into a star. His journey from wanting to quit to becoming a champion proves the power of perseverance.