Mario Luna, known to his teammates, coaches, and growing fanbase as Torta Power, is redefining what it means to be a young lineman in youth football. Starting his journey in Ensenada, Mexico and competing now out of Southern California, Mario has risen through the ranks with determination, skill, and humility, proving to everyone that excellence knows no borders.
@mariolunafootball Mario Luna Football with Oline and Dline 1on1 from @Football University FBU Showcase 2023. Lineman Highlights with Lineman Highlights it got intense. #oline #dline #lineman #popwarnerfootball #popwarner #footballuniversity #fbutopgunshowcase #popwarnerfootball #youthfootballconnect #youthfootballnetwork #mariolunafootball #tortapower #battleaports #linemanhighlights ♬ original sound - Mario Luna Football
Among his impressive achievements, Mario was selected two consecutive years to represent Team FBU SoCal, one of the nation’s most elite youth football squads. Competing in the prestigious Football University (FBU) National Championship, he first earned his spot on the 7th grade team and then returned even stronger to secure his place on the 8th grade team the following year. This kind of back-to-back selection is rare and speaks volumes about Mario’s consistency, development, and drive to compete at the highest level.
But Mario’s story is about more than just making the team. It’s about stepping into some of the toughest environments, trying out against the best players in one of the most talent-rich states in the country, and being handpicked by elite coaches who recognized his potential to dominate at the national level.
The FBU Journey: Playing With the Best, Against the Best
Football University (FBU) is widely known as one of the most respected and competitive youth football platforms in America. FBU is owned and operated by All-American Games, the same organization that produces the prestigious All-American Bowl, televised every January on NBC. The All-American Bowl features the best high school seniors in the country and is famous for showcasing players who go on to become college and NFL stars.
For younger athletes like Mario, the FBU National Championship is an early opportunity to experience high-stakes national competition while beginning the journey toward one day playing in the All-American Bowl.
Each year, FBU organizes tryouts across the country, giving thousands of players the chance to showcase their abilities. But earning a spot on Team FBU SoCal is no easy feat. Players undergo a rigorous tryout process, demonstrating their strength, technique, agility, and football IQ in front of highly experienced coaches and evaluators. Every spot on the team is earned, not given. Players who make it through are handpicked, setting them apart as the best of the best in their region.
Southern California is particularly competitive, producing some of the nation’s top football talent year after year. The expectations are sky-high, and every player is expected to bring their very best at every practice and game.
Coaching Under Champions
Team FBU SoCal is led by Coach Fredy Arteaga and Coach Charles Wallace, two respected and accomplished coaches from St. John Bosco High School, one of the most dominant high school football programs in the United States. Both coaches bring championship experience, technical knowledge, and high-level expectations that push players to become not just better athletes, but smarter, tougher, and more disciplined football players.
For Mario, working under these elite coaches was a transformative experience. He learned how to refine his technique, read his opponents, and execute at a higher level. Not only did he secure a starting position on both sides of the line, but he also became one of the cornerstones of the team’s offensive and defensive fronts, earning the respect of his coaches and peers alike.
The National Stage: Competing at the Top Gun Showcase
While representing Team FBU SoCal was a major accomplishment, Mario’s journey didn’t stop there. He was also invited to the Top Gun Showcase in Naples, Florida, another exclusive event run by Football University. The Top Gun Showcase brings together the nation’s top youth players at each position, giving them the chance to prove themselves against the best of the best.
At Top Gun, Mario didn’t just participate — he dominated. Competing against other elite linemen from across the country, he demonstrated superior strength, footwork, and game awareness. His relentless effort, combined with his leadership and sportsmanship, earned him one of the highest honors of the event: the Gatorade Award, presented to the top-performing lineman at the entire showcase.
This award is not just about talent, but also about character and perseverance. Winning it was a proud moment for Mario, his family, and his coaches, and another clear sign that he is on the right path toward even bigger accomplishments.
Inspiring Others Through Hard Work and Passion
Mario’s journey is inspiring not only because of his accolades, but because of his attitude. He represents what can happen when passion meets discipline and humility. Starting in Mexico, he has climbed to compete with and against the best players in the United States, showing that no matter where you come from, dreams are achievable with hard work and perseverance.
His nickname, Torta Power, has become a symbol of his gritty, never-back-down mentality. Whether he is battling in the trenches at FBU, earning the respect of national coaches at Top Gun, or representing his roots and family with pride, Mario embodies the values of determination and heart that define great athletes.
What’s Next for Mario Luna?
With his middle school career already full of high-level experiences — including back-to-back FBU selections, a Gatorade Award, and valuable training under some of the best coaches in youth football — Mario’s future looks bright. His goal is to continue improving and eventually earn the honor of playing in the All-American Bowl as a high school senior, following in the footsteps of players he once looked up to.
As he transitions to high school football and beyond, Mario will continue to carry the lessons learned from his FBU and Top Gun experiences: that every opportunity must be earned, that hard work pays off, and that the love of the game can take you places you never imagined.
For now, Mario remains a proud representative of his heritage, his team, and his family. He is a role model for young athletes everywhere who dream of playing at the highest levels and a reminder that greatness starts with believing in yourself and putting in the work.