Fernando Mendoza led the Indiana Hoosiers to a national title yesterday. The 27-21 win was anchored by the quarterback, who held his composure throughout the game and made a game-winning fourth-down touchdown run.
Mendoza, his teammates, head coach Curt Cignetti, and Indiana fans celebrated the win at Hard Rock Stadium. Cignetti even broke character for the first time and was seen smiling during the post-game interview.
But no one enjoyed Indiana’s win more than Mendoza’s parents. The proud parents were smiling from ear to ear while the reporters asked them questions about the win and Mendoza’s performance.
When asked about getting a hug over the fence by Mendoza after he became the national champion, his father jokingly said that hopefully someone captured that moment on camera. His mother, Elsa, talked about the hard work Mendoza had put in over the years to get to that moment.
“This is just so special because I know how bad he wanted it,” she said. “I know how hard he worked to get here. So, yes, that hug means the world.”
Even in the moment of celebration, Elsa was worried about her son’s safety. When asked about Mendoza’s fourth-down touchdown run, she said that she wanted to remind him that he’s a quarterback and not a running back.
However, she understood that her son was going to do whatever it took for him to make sure that his team walked away with a national title from Miami Gardens. Elsa also talked about Mendoza’s determination.
She said that he had a goal in his mind, and throughout the season, he worked with his teammates and coaches to realize that dream. Doing that with an unbeaten season run was the icing on the cake.
Does Fernando Mendoza’s Mom Have A Condition?
Elsa suffers from an autoimmune disease called Multiple Sclerosis, which she was diagnosed with 18 years ago. MS attacks the protective sheath that covers nerve fibers, which increases the chance of getting permanent nerve fiber damage.
This condition is caused by a disruption of communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Unfortunately, no cure for MS has been found yet. But nothing could keep Elsa from supporting her son and enjoying every moment of his success.
The quarterback often speaks highly of his mother. During his acceptance speech for the Heisman Trophy, he got emotional while talking about Elsa and what she means to him.
“You’ve always been my biggest fan. You’re my life. You’re my why. You’ve always been my biggest supporter. Your sacrifices, courage, love, my first playbook, my playbook I’m going to carry through my side my entire life,” Mendoza said.
“You taught me that toughness doesn’t need to be loud. It can be quiet and strong. It’s choosing hope. It’s believing in yourself when the world doesn’t give you much reason to. Together, you and I are rewriting what people think is possible. I love you.”
Years of hard work and dedication have now led Mendoza to become a Heisman winner and a national champion, all within the same season.
Read More:
What Disease Does Fernando Mendoza’s Mom Have? A Look at Elsa Mendoza’s Health Issues
Indiana HC Curt Cignetti Dismisses Retirement Talks After Historic Natty Win With Hilarious Retort
Former LSU Star Reacts As Abella Danger Makes Sudden Appearance During CFP Final
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