Travis Hunter, a standout football player at the University of Colorado, had a poignant moment during his Heisman Trophy acceptance speech, reflecting on the impact of his father, Travis Hunter Sr. The ceremony, held at Lincoln Center in New York City on December 15, honored Hunter as the top collegiate football player of the year.
During his emotional speech, the 21-year-old expressed heartfelt thanks to his mother, fiancée, friends, and family. He became particularly moved when addressing his father, who was unable to attend the ceremony. With tears in his eyes, Hunter stated, “Dad, I love you. All the stuff you went through, man. Now, look at your oldest son. I did it for you.”
Hunter Sr. chose to forgo attending the event to allow his mother, Shirley Hunter, to experience it alongside her grandson. He expressed his desire to be present for significant milestones in Travis’s life, such as his future wedding and the impending NFL Draft.
Along with his heartfelt tribute to his father, Hunter also acknowledged the support he received from his mother, Ferrante Edmonds, and his fiancée, Leanna Lenee. He credited his mother for helping him move out of a challenging environment in Florida, stating, “It’s crazy” how far he has come. Earlier this year, Hunter surprised his mother with a new home, capturing the emotional moment on video. He and Lenee recently announced their engagement and plan to marry in May 2025.
As a junior, Hunter’s talent on the field is undeniable. He received first-team All-Big 12 honors as both a defensive back and a wide receiver, also being named the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year. His journey began at Jackson State University under coach Dion Sanders before he transitioned to Colorado.
Looking ahead, Travis Hunter is set to participate in the Alamo Bowl on December 28, where Colorado will face BYU, adding to the excitement surrounding his promising future in both college football and beyond.
This inspiring moment not only highlights Hunter’s achievements but also showcases the importance of family support and the drive to succeed in the face of adversity. As he continues to excel, there’s a sense of hope for his future endeavors, both in sports and life.