By Zehra Naqvi, Donor Relations Coordinator
Francisco Lindor, a name synonymous with excellence on the baseball diamond, has not only left a lasting mark on the sport, but he has also made significant contributions beyond the field. The baseball luminary’s journey started here at Montverde Academy, and this week, we had the honor of hosting him not once, but twice. Lindor graciously shared his words of wisdom with MVA Middle School students during Assembly on Wednesday and again with seniors during a very special senior seminar the following day.
Each school selected a panel of students who asked Lindor questions as they relate to his tapestry of achievements, milestones, personal life, and, of course, his time at MVA. When asked about his early days at the Academy, Lindor acknowledged that it was difficult: “When I first got here, I was scared. I was in the middle of nowhere. I didn’t speak the language… It was tough at the beginning… but Montverde Academy was there to pick me up and help me get through the very, very, long nights.”
Lindor’s trophy cabinet is adorned with accolades that reflect his unparalleled skill and dedication to the game. Each honor underscores his standing as one of the sport’s elites. Students were interested to know the success behind his consistent performance and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. “I want to be the best. I want to perfect my craft,” said Lindor. He encouraged students to establish a schedule, to break down their day and take it one day, one hour, one minute a time. “I try to stick to routines because I know my routine already worked yesterday or a month ago. I know that worked and gave me the results I have today. So just try to stay on it.”
Beyond the baseball diamond, Francisco Lindor has embraced the role of a compassionate philanthropist. His upbringing significantly influenced his values and work ethic. Whether it’s contributing to community development projects or championing youth sports programs, Linder’s off-field contributions have left an enduring legacy. Recently, he was named the MLB Players Trust 2023 Philanthropist of the Year. What makes him give back? “It makes me feel like I’m successful,” said Lindor. “I want to give back. I didn’t get here by myself. A lot of people taught me, a lot of people pushed me, a lot of people motivated me to be better, and they shared their knowledge with me. So I felt like I must do the same thing.”
As he continues to etch his name in the annals of baseball history, Lindor’s impact goes beyond the statistics, exemplifying the essence of a true sports icon both on and off the field. His advice to current students? “Enjoy where you are today — take one day at a time. Enjoy where you are today and be as happy as you can in the moment.”
Perhaps the greatest takeaway for all students is to witness how grounded Lindor remains to this day. He has not forgotten his roots. “I’ll never be bigger than the game,” said Lindor. “Stay in your lane and work as hard as you can. Failing is okay. Failure doesn’t define us. Making a mistake does not define who I am. It sets me up for the next phase of life.”