KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
LA FERIA—There was no doubt that Darius Hernadnez was going to play at the next level, it was just a matter of where.
The multi-sport athlete secured his college future by signing his letter of intent to play football at Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa during a ceremony Thursday afternoon at La Feria High School.
“The emotions today are 100 percent good; this has just been an honor,” Hernandez said. “This is just something I have been dreaming about since I was able to pick up a football. This is the best day of my life and such a special moment. This is something that I really worked for.”
Clarke University will head into their inaugural season as a football program and will compete in the NAIA’s Heart of America Conference beginning this fall.
“Clarke was the best option for me financially, for myself and the family,” Hernandez said. “It is a new program and I feel my chances there are really good to start. Not only that, but they are doing a great job on recruiting and they are bringing in a lot of talent. So for the next four years, it’s going to be something to look out for.”
Hernandez, who played both wide receiver and running back in his time at La Feria, provided the Lions with his soft hands and versatility.
His senior year, he had a key hand in the Lions’ District 16-4A Division I title and ended his career on a strong note by reaching the third round of the playoffs. Hernandez was named the district’s Offensive Player of the Year and was a Blue-Grey Football All-American.
“From just talking to the coaches as of now, I’m looking at playing receiver, running back or playing in the slot,” Hernandez said. “Wherever he needs me I’ll be. They are going to utilize my hands, speed and my agility.”
Along with the athletic ability came his leadership skills. Hernandez led by his actions on the field and that is one trait Lions head coach Oscar Salinas had high praise for.
“He has meant a lot to us and this program; he was a four-year starter for us,” Salinas said. “He has been a great kid on and off the field. His biggest thing was he was a leader. He wasn’t a vocal leader, but he led with his actions and people followed him because of the way he worked. He is a hard worker and Clarke couldn’t get a better athlete to start their program.”