Rising above unexpected tragedy, the Miami Hurricanes’ star Mark Fletcher Jr. discovered newfound strength and stayed in Coral Gables to honor "Big Mark's" legacy while chasing a national title.
MIAMI, Fla. – Following a historic College Football Playoff performance, Miami Hurricanes local star running back Mark Fletcher Jr. is one of college football’s most prolific players ahead of the 2026-27 season. He had numerous heroic moments, especially against the Texas A&M Aggies, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Indiana Hoosiers.
However, the rise to stardom didn’t come without personal adversity.
As a sophomore at the University of Miami, Fletcher Jr.’s father passed away on Oct. 24, 2024. He was 53 years old and the tragedy occurred unexpectedly. Fletcher Sr., also known as “Big Mark,” was a diehard Hurricane fan. He connected with several of his son’s teammates and coaches.
The week the news broke, the Hurricanes were hosting the Florida State Seminoles at Hard Rock Stadium. After the game, Fletcher Jr. had rushed 15 times for 71 yards, scoring a touchdown and pointing to the sky – honoring “Big Mark.” Despite not being physically present, the program’s backfield star still feels connected to him.
To this day, Fletcher Jr. sends a message to “Big Mark’s” phone number before every game.
In a recent interview with Adam Breneman on the Up Next Podcast, he was asked about the biggest lesson learned since the tragic death.
“I learned that I’m way stronger than I thought I was,” Fletcher Jr. said. “I never thought I would react in a way to go and play football. I was really proud of myself for doing that. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. I had to pretend he was still there. That was my normal: football and dad.”
During the funeral, all of the Hurricanes football players were in attendance.
As the second anniversary of “Big Mark’s” passing approaches, Fletcher Jr. decided to return to the program and complete a senior season. Despite having the opportunity to declare for the NFL Draft, the 21-year-old decided to undergo one final ride at the University of Miami.
“I love where this program has gotten,” Fletcher Jr. said. “I saw where it was before I got here. I trusted coach [Mario] Cristobal’s words and building back this program, but I think I really [decided to come back] for my little self. The kid who was watching Miami – I saw how good they were. If I can help Miami get at least closer to [winning a National Championship], I got one more year to do it. I feel like I’m doing what little Mark Fletcher would do.”
Ahead of fall camp and the regular season, the Hurricanes are viewed as title contenders. Regardless of the path, Fletcher Jr. will play a significant role in the journey.
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Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
