Duce Robinson: Parents | FSU | Baseball | Siblings | Family | Mom

Duce Robinson is among the most intriguing dual-sport athletes in recent college athletics. Known for his prowess both on the football field and the baseball diamond, his journey is deeply tied to family, legacy, and expectations. In this article, we explore Duce Robinson’s family background, his parents’ athletic history, his connection to Florida State University (FSU), his baseball aspirations, and the influence of his siblings and mother.

Early Life & Athletic Beginnings

Duce Dade Robinson was born on January 19, 2005.  He spent his youth in multiple states — Dallas, Phoenix, and elsewhere — due to his family’s movements.  While he eventually enrolled at Pinnacle High School in Phoenix, Arizona, it was clear from early on that he possessed rare athletic gifts.

Even before donning football pads, Duce’s natural size, speed, and coordination made him a prospect to watch. He played basketball, baseball, and football at different points, gradually narrowing his focus to football and baseball — a decision that would mirror his father’s athletic path.

His high school football numbers were outstanding: 84 catches for 1,614 yards and 14 touchdowns in his senior year, for example. But he was also a top baseball recruit, and many speculated whether he’d eventually enter the MLB Draft.

From these early days, his family influence loomed large — not as pressure, but as a roadmap.

Parents: Athletic Legacy and Influence

Father: Dominic Robinson

Arguably, much of Duce’s athletic identity originates with his father, Dominic Robinson. Dominic was a two-sport athlete at Florida State University, playing both football and baseball.

• In football, Dominic played from 2001 to 2004, shifting positions between wide receiver and defensive back.

• In baseball, he was part of the FSU baseball team (notably in the 2002 season).

• After his collegiate career, Dominic took coaching roles, including defensive coordinator positions at smaller programs, before turning toward training and athlete development.

• He also founded or worked with athletic performance programs (for example, training academies) to mentor younger athletes.

Dominic’s dual-sport background provided Duce not just genetic advantage, but a lived template. Duce often cites his father as both inspiration and coach.

Mother: Mary Beth (Robinson)

Duce’s mother, Mary Beth, also has athletic roots. She competed in swimming at the University of Florida during her college years (circa 1999–2001).

While she may not have the same public athletic footprint as Dominic, her competitive spirit and understanding of college athletics helped provide balance. In interviews and in Duce’s own reflections, Mary Beth is often credited with keeping perspective, mental resilience, and supporting his pursuits rather than pressuring him.

The combination of a father who modeled peak sporting ambition and a mother who understood the athletic mindset formed a strong foundation for Duce.

Family Dynamics & Siblings

Though Duce is often the most talked-about name in his family, he is not alone in the Robinson household. He has younger brothers (though public details are limited) whom he sees as both inspiration and audience.

In interviews, Duce has expressed a desire to set an example for his brothers — to show them what dedication, sacrifice, and resilience look like in practice.

Their family life included periods when athletic and academic commitments meant travel, coaching, and time away from home. But the Robinsons embraced that, seeing it as part of the path.

One anecdote: Duce dressed up as an FSU football player for Halloween when just five years old, often wearing FSU gear in family photos — a symbolic gesture that his siblings likely shared in.

USC and the Dual-Sport Decision

When Duce emerged as a top recruit, he committed to USC, opting to play both football and baseball.

His decision to pursue both was not without challenge: balancing spring training and baseball games with football practices demands a unique approach.

During his time at USC:

• He recorded meaningful statistics in football, contributing as a wide receiver.

• In baseball, he appeared in games and continued to refine his hitting, defense, and plate discipline.

One big question hanging over Duce was: would he eventually choose one sport — or could he sustain both? Many analysts compared his situation to dual-sport legends like Deion Sanders or Bo Jackson.

His father was careful not to push him toward duplication of his own career but instead encouraged Duce to discover what suited him.

The FSU Connection & Transfer

Duce’s relationship with FSU is layered — familial, aspirational, and ultimately realized.

Legacy ties & early fandom

Growing up, Duce was aware of his father’s history at FSU, and early memories of championship games further anchored his love for the Seminoles. One of his earliest vivid memories is watching FSU’s national championship in 2013 and being lifted by his father in celebration.

Despite his mother having attended the University of Florida, Duce identified strongly with FSU — even wearing garnet and gold in family portraits.

Transfer to FSU

After two seasons at USC, Duce entered the NCAA transfer portal and ultimately committed to FSU in December 2024. His reasons included leadership opportunity, quarterback chemistry, and the chance to write his own story in a place tied to his heritage.

He stated that while the family legacy mattered, his connection to FSU had to feel right for him personally — not just as a nod to his father’s past.

Early Impact & Breakout

At FSU, Duce wasted little time making an impact. In 2025, he earned ACC Receiver of the Week honors after a spectacular performance against East Texas A&M, where he caught multiple long touchdowns and set personal marks. His play helped solidify his role as a cornerstone of FSU’s offense.

His arrival also fueled cultural shifts: as a legacy, he was seen as someone who could bridge old tradition and new momentum for FSU’s football resurgence.

Baseball Ambitions & Considerations

Even as Duce’s football star rises, the baseball path remains alive — and competitive.

From high school onward, scouts rated Duce among the top baseball recruits.  He played summer ball with the California Collegiate League’s Academy Barons.

His swing mechanics, bat path, and raw power drew comps to MLB stars like Aaron Judge.  At the same time, analysts acknowledge that much development is still needed, especially in the mental toughness and consistency that baseball demands.

One key tension: if Duce is drafted by an MLB team, would he commit to baseball exclusively — or continue balancing both sports? The MLB draft rules and NCAA eligibility make that path complex.

His mother and father have both expressed support for whichever path makes sense for Duce, rather than forcing a decision prematurely.

In sum, the baseball option is not just a fallback — it’s an integral part of his identity as an athlete. Duce Robinson family.

Parental Influence on His Sports Journey

It would be misleading to think Duce’s path was simply inherited. His parents influenced him, but also gave him room to grow.

• Avoiding burnout: Dominic once said he was careful not to overwhelm Duce with formal training too early, to preserve the joy of sport.

• Mentorship, not micromanagement: Duce often refers to his father as “Coach” but clarifies that he’s also “Dad.” That dual role has required balance.

• Emotional support: His mother’s presence helped normalize the mental side, encouraging him to view setbacks as growth opportunities.

• Perspective on dual-sports: Dominic’s own experience playing two sports allowed him to give Duce realistic advice — he knew the physical and mental demands firsthand.

• Legacy but no pressure: The Robinsons have repeatedly emphasized they did not force Duce to follow in Dominic’s exact footsteps — rather, they wanted him to carve his own way.

All told, the parental influence is present, but not overbearing — a delicate balance that has contributed to Duce’s growth and resilience. Duce Robinson family.

Challenges & Criticisms

Even with immense talent and legacy, Duce faces hurdles:

1. Physical stress — juggling two high-level sports can increase risk of injury and fatigue.

2. Time conflict — overlapping seasons and training demands mean sacrifices in rest, academics, or personal time.

3. Decision pressure — looming questions over whether to specialize, sign pro, or maintain dual status create mental strain.

4. Comparisons — being the son of a dual-sport athlete invites comparisons, which can be burdensome.

5. Expectations at FSU — as a legacy, he carries both hope and skepticism; failing to live up to expectations would draw scrutiny.

Yet, Duce’s statements, family support, and early successes suggest he is well aware of these dynamics and intentionally navigating them.

What Lies Ahead

Looking forward, several trajectories are possible for Duce Robinson:

• Continuing dual-sport participation at FSU (if permissible)

• Prioritizing offense in football and perhaps aiming for the NFL

• Entering the MLB draft and evaluating a baseball career

• Transitioning responsibilities to leadership, mentorship, or coaching later in life

Regardless of which path he chooses, his family — parents, siblings, mother — will likely remain central to his narrative. Duce Robinson family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who are Duce Robinson’s parents?
A: His father is Dominic Robinson, a former dual-sport athlete at Florida State (football & baseball), and his mother is Mary Beth, a former collegiate swimmer at the University of Florida.

Q2: Did Duce Robinson transfer to FSU?
A: Yes. After two seasons at USC, he entered the transfer portal and committed to Florida State in December 2024.

Q3: Does Duce have siblings?
A: Yes — he has younger brothers, though public details are limited. He often mentions wanting to set an example for them.

Q4: Is Duce more focused on football or baseball?
A: As of now, he maintains ambitions in both. But many analysts expect he may eventually prioritize one, particularly as professional opportunities emerge.

Q5: How much did his parents shape his athletic path?
A: They provided both genetic and experiential foundation. Dominic’s dual-sport experience and Mary Beth’s competitive mindset shaped Duce’s framework, but they also allowed him freedom to decide his own direction.

Q6: What has Duce done so far at FSU?
A: At FSU, Duce has made an immediate impact, earning ACC Receiver of the Week honors after a breakout performance and contributing as a leader in the program.