Publisher's Synopsis
Manti Te'o is a former American football linebacker who played for the University of Notre Dame and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 2012. His college football career was marred by a highly publicized scandal in which he was the victim of a catfishing scheme.
Born and raised in Hawaii, Te'o grew up playing football and was a standout player at Punahou School. He chose to attend Notre Dame, where he became one of the most decorated football players in the school's history. During his senior season in 2012, he led the Fighting Irish to an undefeated regular season and a spot in the national championship game. However, during the season, it was revealed that Te'o had been the victim of a catfishing scheme in which he had an online relationship with a woman named Lennay Kekua, who turned out to be a hoax. The scandal brought national attention and scrutiny to Te'o, and it has remained a significant part of his legacy. Despite the controversy, Te'o was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. He played for the Chargers for four seasons before joining the New Orleans Saints in 2017. This biography of Manti Te'o explores his life and career, from his upbringing in Hawaii to his rise to fame at Notre Dame, his involvement in the catfishing scandal, and his NFL career. The book delves into the complexities of Te'o's story and offers insights into the person behind the headlines.