SerpApi.Org
The NFL Latino Youth Honors is returning for its fourth annual edition, recognizing outstanding high school seniors from across the country who represent the values of football, education and cultural pride. The initiative highlights young athletes from NFL club markets who excel on the field while making a meaningful impact in their schools and communities.
With support from Procter & Gamble, which returns as the presenting sponsor for the third consecutive year, the program will award eight student-athletes with college grants. The male and female national winners will each receive $25,000, while six additional finalists will earn $5,000 scholarships to help continue their academic journeys.
The NFL and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation created the program to recognize youth football players who demonstrate leadership beyond the game. This year's nominees were selected from all 32 NFL markets, with teams choosing exceptional male and female high school seniors involved in tackle or flag football.
To qualify, student-athletes must be high school seniors, maintain good academic standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA, compete in an NFL market and provide verified football statistics from their season and career. The selection process produced 61 nominees, who will be honored during Latino Heritage Month celebrations hosted by their respective NFL teams.
Among the standout nominees is Andrea Loza, a senior at New Prairie High School and a member of the school's first Girls Flag Football team. Loza has built a strong reputation as a leader both academically and athletically, maintaining a 3.20 GPA while taking AP and Honors courses and participating in school and community organizations.
On the field, Loza has quickly become a key player for the Cougars, contributing as both a quarterback and center. During her first season, she recorded 176 passing yards, 105 receiving yards, one rushing touchdown and more than 15 flag pulls, showing the versatility and dedication that define the NFL Latino Youth Honors program.
Another impressive nominee is Jeremiah Gonzales from Andrean High School, a standout member of the reigning IHSAA Class 2A State Championship football team. Gonzales has excelled in the classroom with a 4.06 GPA while also competing in track and field and participating in community service initiatives.
Gonzales has made an impact on both sides of the ball as a running back and linebacker, helping Andrean capture a state championship while averaging five yards per carry and ranking among the team's top tacklers. His success represents the mission of the NFL Latino Youth Honors: celebrating young athletes who use football as a platform for leadership, achievement and positive change.
Through this program, the NFL continues to invest in the next generation of football leaders. By recognizing student-athletes who embrace their culture, pursue academic excellence and inspire their communities, the league is highlighting the future stars who will shape the sport both on and off the field.
