Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes had some words of encouragement for the Class of 2020 at his alma mater, Texas Tech University during a virtual commencement ceremony on Saturday.
Mahomes acknowledged that while the coronavirus pandemic has robbed this graduating class of a traditional experience, it should not take away from the actual achievement. He also said Texas Tech breeds resilient students (via Adam Teicher of ESPN):
“I know this isn't the graduation ceremony that you and your families had envisioned, but that doesn't change the outcome or all the hard work, long hours and sacrifices that you made to achieve this milestone,” Mahomes said in his remarks, which lasted less than two minutes. “I know this is sure not how you imagined spending your last days as a student.
“But the world is in a different place today than it was just a few weeks ago. And as Red Raiders, we're built to persevere in difficult times. We've all had to take a moment and learn to adjust to these new challenges. And when the odds are stacked against us, we make a play — and I can tell you this is going to make us all more competitive and hungrier than ever.
“Remember, this is a day to celebrate, to look back on the friends you made, the professors who have changed your life and the memories that you will cherish forever. Whatever plans lie in front of you, I have no doubt you will go out there and show the world what it means to come from Lubbock, Texas. Go out and win your Super Bowl. Congrats, Class of 2020. I can't wait to see what you do next.”
Mahomes attended Texas Tech from 2014 to 2016, establishing himself as a top prospect ahead of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Of course, Mahomes had to show some resilience of his own. He fell in that draft and had to spend his rookie season as Alex Smith's backup. But Mahomes persevered, winning the NFL MVP Award in 2018 and leading the Chiefs to a Super Bowl in 2019.
As Mahomes stated, it's time for the Class of 2020 to “win your Super Bowl.”
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