Palm Beach County’s own Travis Hunter Jr. was honored as the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner on Saturday night in New York City. Hunter, a standout player for the Colorado Buffaloes who shines on both offense and defense, gave an emotional acceptance speech filled with gratitude for his family, coaches, and supporters.
The most touching moment came when Hunter addressed his father, Travis Hunter Sr., who couldn’t attend the ceremony.
“I want to talk to my dad. He’s not here tonight, but I know he’s watching on TV,” Hunter said, fighting back tears. “Dad, I love you. All the struggles you went through, everything you did for me… Now look at your oldest son. I made it for you.
“From the times you couldn’t come to my games, to watching me on TV every weekend — it means the world to me. I know you wanted to be here tonight, but don’t worry, I’m bringing this trophy home for you. I love you.”
Why Wasn’t Travis Hunter Jr.’s Father There?
Travis Hunter Sr., who stayed in Boynton Beach for the ceremony, explained his decision in an earlier interview with The Palm Beach Post.
“I didn’t want to go,” he said. “I want to be there for his wedding, for when he gets drafted. I’ll watch this one from home.”
Travis Sr. had recently been released from the Palm Beach County West Detention Center after serving 90 days for a 2023 arrest. Despite this, he always believed in his son’s potential.
“I’m not surprised he won,” he said. “I’ve always known he could do it if he put his mind to it. Since he was four years old, I’ve told him he’s the best player out there — and he’s proven it every time.”
Travis Sr., now 39, has been a constant presence at his son’s games, even during challenging times. While incarcerated, he followed most of Hunter Jr.’s games and shared how tough it was to miss them in person.
“Yeah, it hurt not being there,” he admitted. “It always does when I can’t go to a game.”
Who Is Travis Hunter Sr.?
Before his son’s rise to fame, Travis Hunter Sr. was a local sports star in Boynton Beach. A standout in football and track, he set school records and wowed crowds with his speed and athleticism.
In 2004, he helped Boynton Beach High break a 14-game losing streak with an 82-yard kick return and a 46-yard interception for a touchdown. He graduated in 2005 and dreamed of playing college football, but chose to stay close to home for his children.
Instead, he played semipro football in leagues across Florida, earning accolades like Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2007. “I just wanted to play ball,” he said at the time.
Now, his son’s success represents the dream he chased — and a legacy he’s proud to see carried forward.
