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Bryan Hernandez, a senior at Grants High School, poses with his Coach after the All-America Classic game where Hernandez scored the game winning touchdown. Courtesy photo
ORLANDO, FL – Brian Hernandez, a Grants High School football player made the catch of a lifetime in Florida. Hernandez, played on the National Team at the All-American Classic in Orlando, FL. The game where Hernandez made the impressive feat was played at the Feltrim Sports Village in Orlando.
With 54 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Hernandez, a slot back receiver, was able to get away from his defender as his quarterback scrambled, the quarterback was able to find Hernandez in the endzone at the last second where Hernandez caught the ball to put his team up 24-15, scoring a touchdown.
“Honestly, I had a lot to prove, being I was the only one from [New Mexico] there, I felt I had to make a statement,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez's coach, Kalvin Rymer, told him throughout the practices, “Keep trying – there will always be a ‘no’ but if you keep trying there will be a ‘yes.’”
That touchdown was Hernandez’ “yes.”
An equally talented opposing team, called the American team was not going to be outdone. They rallied in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter, however it was not enough to overcome Hernandez’ touchdown and the final score was 24-22 with the National team on top, thanks to Hernandez’ golden catch.
When asked how he prepared for the game, Hernandez said, “Confidence comes with preparation—I have been getting ready for the game for a while.” Hernandez had caught two balls in the game for 24 yards.
Hernandez is a senior at GHS, he was invited to play at the Great American Classic after a coach from the Spiral FBS Tropical Bowl Event Company, who puts on the Great American Classic game, saw video footage on Twitter of a punt return Hernandez had.
“It was great to be chosen and it felt great to be there,” he said. Over 100 players from across the Unites States were invited to participate in the game.
Hernandez wanted to thank the community for supporting him with fundraising efforts to make the trip to Florida possible.
“It would not have been possible without the community support,” said Hernandez.
Hernandez who has four current college offers, awaits more potential scholarship offers and will revere his new friendships as well as the memories of the All-American Classic game, he said.