Coming out of high school as a “2-star recruit,” QB Fernando Mendoza was overlooked and lightly recruited. While others chased attention and accolades, Mendoza chased improvement. He arrived on the UC Berkeley campus without definite guarantees, carrying more doubt from outsiders than offers from coaches. Practices were hard, opportunities were scarce, and setbacks were frequent—however, he never quit and continued to improve.
Each season, Mendoza grew. He studied film when no one was watching, embraced competition, and responded to adversity with patience instead of frustration. When he transferred to Indiana University, he didn’t just seize the opportunity—he transformed it. Calm, precise, and unshaken, he led with a poise that reflected years of being tested.
By the time Fernando Mendoza lifted the “2025 Heisman Trophy” last Saturday night, his journey had become a testament to resilience.
“Pressed, not crushed.
Perplexed, not in despair.
Hunted, not abandoned.
Knocked down, not destroyed.”
Stars don’t define destiny. Perseverance outlasts doubt, and being “struck down” is never the same as being “defeated.” Mendoza’s rise proved that belief, self-discipline, grit, and faith in the process can carry an underdog all the way to the pinnacle of college football.
Listen closely: Hardship is a part of life—you can count on it—but defeat doesn’t have to be. You will face pressure, confusion, opposition, and even moments when you feel knocked down; however, none of those struggles have the final word. You may bend, but you’re not broken. You may question, but you’re not hopeless.
Never allow criticism or setbacks to define who you are. Even when others doubt you or attempt to limit you with labels, you are not abandoned or defeated. Why? Because God always has the final word. Strength is found in perseverance—knowing that being “struck down” is not the same as being “destroyed.”
The pain of discipline is always less than the pain of regret. That is the importance of resilience.
Love God. Love people. Live sent.
