Transferring from the Community College of Denver, Frank Hernandez has enrolled in CSU Global online classes and intends to walk-on to the CSU football this fall. He will have 4 years of eligibility. Who is Frank Hernandez you ask? He’s a 38 year old Army veteran with a fused ankle. Once that fused ankle is planted, he claims the injury creates a powerful boot (55 yards) and sees competing with Ben DeLine for the starting kicker position. DeLine connected on nearly 73% of FG attempts last year, but Hernandez is confident.
“Coming to take your spot bud.”
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Frank with his bolted ankle or
what he likes to call the "Titanium Nightmare" |
Originally from Puerto Rico, Hernandez attended powerhouse Josefa Pastrana HS in Aguas Buenas. Hernandez hasn’t played organized football since his sophomore year and picked it up again in the Army. Since Frank lives in Brighton, he will have to commute to the Fort Collins campus to compete with athletes almost half his age. Hernandez is optimistic that his transition will be an easy one.
“The coaches and players are gonna love me.” When asked if Coach Fairchild was aware he had such a unique student-athlete ready to compete for a roster spot, Hernandez responded,
“No, but I’m gonna email him.” Keep an eye on your inbox Steve!
Currently, Hernandez is working out trying to get into game shape.
“I’m going to work on my legs and lower back.” He has a strict diet, sticking with Wheaties (no milk) and club sandwiches from the office cafeteria, in order to power up for these grueling workouts. Mentally, Hernandez will have the toughest test.
“I’m going to wear my mouthpiece to work.”
It’s clear that Hernandez has the drive and passion to contribute to the Rams this season, but what’s his motivation? To prove others wrong? To test himself physically and mentally? The camaraderie and competition? Hernandez responded,
“Where are all my pens? Oh, I know, I left them downstairs.”
More to come…
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