Oregon's Marcus Mariota wins the 2014 Heisman Trophy

Quotes from Mariota after winning the trophy

On winning the Heisman...

 

"I'm at a loss for words. It's truly amazing. It's hard to explain.

 

On his emotional acceptance speech

 

"I had to give thanks to so many people because where I am today is due to all those people. It's hard not to get emotional because it's been a long journey and all those people who helped me out and who supported me and believed in me mean the world to me.

 

"I got emotional because all the hard work of other people led me to where I am today. I wish I could give them more thanks.

 

On what his winning means to his home state, Hawaii...

 

"In Hawaii, if one person is successful the entire state is successful. I'm just grateful to be a part of it. I hope this is just the beginning and that a lot of kids back home are inspired to succeed.

 

"It's been a journey, but I couldn't have done it without my boys back home, my family and my teammates. My boys back home were the ones who believed in me. Without them I wouldn't be standing here today. This isn't just a one-person deal, there's a lot of people who have put their heart and their hard work into it.

 

On his leadership style...

 

"I've always been quiet, always been reserved. I've always tended to not use my words when it comes to being a leader. But there are different kinds of leadership styles. Sometims showing you care about someone is better than just yelling at them. I try to reach people by showing I care.

 

On how it felt to have his name announced...

 

"My heart was pounding the entire time. Experiences like this only come once."