Fernando Mendoza may be a superstar on the football field, but those who know him best say his impact off the field is just as powerful.
For more than 40 years, Brother Herb has served as the heart of Columbus’ sports medicine program, a place where student-athletes go not only for care, but for connection.
“He would come in here asking, ‘Brother, my shoulder hurts, I need stretching, I need treatment,’” Baker recalled. “We will provide the treatments, and this is where he would end up. Nice warm Jacuzzi.” Baker described Mendoza as easygoing, polite, and deeply appreciative. “He was always very grateful for what we do to him,” he said.
Now a Heisman Trophy winner and Columbus graduate from the Class of 2022, Mendoza was known for far more than football during his high school years. Former head coach John Lynskey said Mendoza immersed himself in all aspects of student life.
“Off the field, he was just a kid with enormous charisma. He was involved in everything, a book nerd. He loved to study. He put as much emphasis on his studies as he did into practice,” Lynskey said.
As the College Football Playoff title game approached, Columbus found itself proudly conflicted.
“I like Mendoza, but you know, I’m a diehard Miami fan,” Baker admitted. “So, I’m conflicted… but I’m a local guy, so I’ve got to root for my team.”
Despite the rivalry, the sense of pride is overwhelming.
“The winner is Columbus High School,” Lynskey said. “The game hasn’t started. We’ve already won.”
The school hosted a massive watch party, celebrating not only Mendoza, but six other Columbus alumni — including his brother Alberto — competing in the championship. Classes were even canceled the following day so the campus could celebrate together.
Behind that pride stands a strong Sports Medicine Department, staffed by three full-time Certified Athletic Trainers: Brother Herb Baker, Steven Chica, and Derek Busto.
Together, they oversee student-athlete health while mentoring Student Athletic Trainers, continuing a legacy that helped shape athletes like Fernando Mendoza — on the field and far beyond it. Read more here!