Whittier College

Mendez began his athletic career at Springfield College as a stand out three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball. His senior year, he was named All-American, and after continued his career with the Milwaukee Braves organization where he earned his spot as a member of the Springfield College Hall of Fame

From 1970-1989, Mendez proudly dedicated 18 years of service with Whittier College. Hugh also took his educating in the classroom where he taught in the HPER and the History Department 

As assistant, Hugh’s defensive team led the nation in rushing yards allowing a mere 34.3 yards per game. As head coach in 1981 and 1982, he won back-to-back SCIAC titles.

As head football coach at Whittier College, Hugh became the first black football coach at a 4-year California College. He coached 9 Hall of Famers,  three All-American football players and two NFL coaches. 

As a baseball coach, Hugh coached thirteen All-Americans, two first round draft choices, seven Whittier College Hall of Famers, and 2 major league players

Additionally, Hugh coached in the Finnish National American Football Championships in 1985. Coach Mendez would be a great addition to the Hall of Fame, not only for Whittier College, but for his family and all the student/athletes who had the honor and pleasure to play for “coach”