Mondo Athletes achieve their goals, conquer new heights, and exceed their own expectations. Mondo is proud to recognize Laiatu Latu as a Mondo Athlete.
Laiatu Latu is excited to be Mondo USA's first Mondo Athlete. When asked about his goals for the season, he didn't hesitate: “I want to be first-team All-American; to contribute a lot to this sport.”
A few years ago, this seemed impossible. As a sophomore at the University of Washington, Latu injured his neck and was told he wouldn't play again, which effectively ended his football career. Less than three years later, he earned medical clearance to lace up his cleats and return to the gridiron, whereupon he transferred to UCLA.
Today, as an outside linebacker for the Bruins, Latu is one of the top edge rushers in the country. During the 2022 season, he led the team with 12.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks in 13 games. In the 2023 preseason, the senior sociology major was named to several watch lists, including the Nagurski Trophy, Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award, and Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award.
The Bruins kicked off the 2023 season by beating the Chanticleers of Coastal Carolina 27-13, with Latu tallying three quarterback sacks. “Felt good to be back in the season,” he said. “Being on the field with everybody is a different feeling than practice. I like that sore feeling after the game, like I did something. I was a part of something. It's so exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. It's a good feeling!”
We asked Latu about his inspiration, outlook, and advice he'd give to up-and-coming high school athletes looking to play college football and make things happen, like he did.
Did you always want to play football?
Growing up, I played everything: soccer, basketball, baseball. I played rugby in high school. But football is what stuck with me. It's about the brotherhood and the relationships that you make within football. All the people you meet — that's what I really love about the game.
Who inspires you?
My mom is my inspiration. She's the strongest person ever. She went through a lot in her life, and she continues to keep being there and is always providing. She's shown what true love is.
My family is my “why” for why I play. That's what keeps me going on the field, every day.
How has your outlook changed since your injury?
When everything first happened, it was pretty heartbreaking. I didn't know how to take it at first.
But I came to the realization that this is something I love. I've known it my whole life. It's like if you went to school to become a doctor, and then somewhere along the way you're told, “You can never be a doctor.”
So it was like everything I was working toward had been shut down and it was all for nothing. In that instant, I told myself, “Why give up on what I know I'm able to do?” I wasn't willing to give up. I keep living every day working toward my goals. If you have the love and dedication for something and you're willing to make it happen, it will at some point.
So I knew I always wanted to come back. I've worked every day for it, doing conditioning and the drill work, and when I was cleared, I got to come to UCLA.
What is it like for you to attend a highly prestigious academic institution like UCLA, while also being a football athlete?
As an athlete here, you're definitely putting in quality time into both academics and football. God has blessed me with a great education and playing football. People have always been in my corner, supporting me.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
Before every game, I listen to music to get me in the zone.
What would you recommend for high school athletes who are hoping to play at the college level?
You get in what you get out. Put in as much time and effort into getting better and wanting to play at an elite level.