LINCOLN, Neb. — In a powerful display of love and support, Nebraska defensive back Malcolm Hartzog Jr. is winning hearts both on and off the field. The junior standout took to social media late Wednesday to share an emotional message dedicated to his girlfriend, Mary Fowler, as she begins her recovery journey from a devastating ACL injury.
Fowler, a talented collegiate soccer player known for her determination and energy on the pitch, suffered the injury during a recent match — a setback that will sideline her for the remainder of the season. The news struck hard not just for Mary’s teammates and coaches, but for those closest to her, including Hartzog, who has been by her side every step of the way.
In his post, Hartzog wrote, “You are the strongest person I know. Watching you go through this pain with grace and courage inspires me more than you could ever know. I wish I could take the hurt away, but I know you’re going to come back stronger, because that’s who you are. I’ve got you, always.”
The message was accompanied by a photo of the couple at the hospital, with Fowler smiling through the brace and bandages, and Hartzog holding her hand.
The heartfelt moment has since gone viral across Nebraska sports circles and beyond, with fans, teammates, and fellow athletes applauding the couple’s strength and unity. Comments poured in, calling the post “a beautiful display of love,” “uplifting,” and “what real support looks like.”
Fowler, a junior forward with a knack for finding the back of the net, had been having a breakout season before the injury. According to team sources, the surgery to repair her ACL was successful, and she’s already begun light rehabilitation work under medical supervision.
While many athletes face ACL injuries with a long road ahead, Fowler’s positive mindset is expected to be a driving force in her recovery. Those who know her best describe her as “fiercely competitive, mentally tough, and relentlessly optimistic” — traits that will serve her well in the months to come.
Hartzog’s gesture highlights a lesser-seen side of student-athletes, who often balance intense athletic schedules with deeply personal relationships. In a world that often measures athletes by stats and wins, moments like these remind fans that behind every jersey number is a real human story.
Head Coach Matt Rhule also commented briefly during Thursday’s press availability, saying, “Malcolm is a leader on this team, not just because of how he plays, but because of who he is. What he shared this week speaks to his character — we’re proud of him.”
As Fowler begins her road back to the field and Hartzog prepares for what’s expected to be a pivotal season with the Cornhuskers, the two continue to lean on each other, showing that resilience and love often go hand in hand.
