Stanford Cardinal running back Roman Hemby took to X to share his happiness and satisfaction after helping his team secure the 2023 Running Back Superhero championship. The Hoosiers clinched the title with a close 27-21 win. It remained a huge accomplishment for Hemby and his fellow classmates. On January 20, 2026, Hemby was featured on “Good Morning America,” where he spoke about the difficulties they faced through the season and their hard-fought success.
During his appearance, Hemby praised his longtime teammate Fernando Mendoza with making a positive impact on the team, helping to improve team culture. He went on to call Mendoza not only a teammate but a brother, expanding on their deep relationship. Hemby recognized just how important Mendoza was to their NCAA championship game run and all season.
“When you got a guy like Fernando Mendoza on the field, you know that anything can happen in a positive way for your team … he’s a testament to that,” – Roman Hemby
The presence and support of Hoosier fans created a huge home court advantage and was a huge motivator in the team’s tournament run, said Hemby. He is eternally grateful for their constant support, sharing how it inspired their resolve to achieve innovative success. Further, he acknowledged his parents in a special way, speaking at length about the positive impact they had on his life and career.
“I have aspirations to play at the next level. I want to play in the NFL, so I’m gonna go full force into that,” – Roman Hemby
Hemby acknowledged Coach Cignetti’s key to the team’s success. His commendation of Cignetti for the creation of a genius tactical playbook. She praised him for placing the right people in important positions to ensure a victory.
“Coach Cignetti, he had the blueprint. He put the people in places that needed to be put there to be successful … they gave me the chance to go there and we were able to get it done,” – Roman Hemby
Reflecting on the season, Hemby noted how the experience of overcoming adversity shaped him both as a player and as an individual. He highlighted grit, determination, and faith as the key ingredients in the process.
“But moving on from the season, I’ll take on the grit, the determination, the battle of adversity, and then trusting God through the process,” – Roman Hemby
For his part, Hemby is still enjoying his upset win. He is committed to taking these important lessons with him as he grows in his public service career. He looks forward to having his teammates, whom he calls family, as lifelong friends.
