Patriots Rookie Kicker Honored by Hometown After Successful Season

Andy Borregales, a Miami native, became the first Venezuelan player to suit up for a Super Bowl.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 12:15pm

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After a standout rookie season that included a trip to the Super Bowl, New England Patriots kicker Andy Borregales was honored by his hometown of Doral, Florida. Borregales, a Miami native and University of Miami alum, was presented with a certificate from the city celebrating his accomplishments, including becoming the first Venezuelan player to appear in a Super Bowl.

Why it matters

Borregales' success represents a milestone for Venezuelan representation in the NFL, as he is the first player from the country to not only make a Super Bowl roster, but also establish himself as a reliable kicker in the league. His journey from Doral to the Super Bowl stage inspires young athletes in his community.

The details

The Patriots selected Borregales in the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and he immediately won the starting kicker job. After a shaky start, he settled in and finished the regular season with 27 made field goals. Borregales also set a new franchise record for longest field goal made at Gillette Stadium with a 59-yarder. He was named the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week in Week 12.

  • Borregales was selected by the Patriots in the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
  • Borregales made his NFL debut in Week 1 of the 2025 season.
  • In Week 18, Borregales set the Gillette Stadium record with a 59-yard field goal.
  • Borregales was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week in Week 12 of the 2025 season.
  • Borregales and the Patriots reached the Super Bowl in the 2025 season.

The players

Andy Borregales

A rookie kicker for the New England Patriots who hails from Doral, Florida and played college football at the University of Miami. He became the first Venezuelan player to appear in a Super Bowl.

Rafael Pineyro

A Doral city councilman who was also born in Venezuela and presented Borregales with a certificate honoring his accomplishments.

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What they’re saying

“As someone that is representing our city of Doral at a level that a lot of young people always dream to be and dream to play, you represent what I always like to call a lot of sacrifices.”

— Rafael Pineyro, Doral City Councilman

“It's a great honor. I want to thank you and your family. Really just this whole community. Like you said, I was raised here, I had my childhood here. Fond memories. There's a lot of perserverance and dedication.”

— Andy Borregales

What’s next

The Patriots have high hopes for Borregales in the upcoming seasons after his strong rookie campaign.

The takeaway

Borregales' journey from Doral, Florida to the Super Bowl stage as the first Venezuelan player to suit up for the big game is an inspiring story of perseverance and representation for young athletes in his community.