Dear Holtz’s Heroes Family,
As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded each time I see a teammate and member of Holtz’s Heroes of the powerful bonds that were formed when we committed to play for Coach Holtz. Coach Holtz always emphasized the 4 for 40 mindset. Don’t just look at Notre Dame as 4 years of college, but a 40 year plus lifelong relationship built on Love, Trust, and Commitment.
Rocket Ismail recently recounted a day he learned the true meaning of a love between a coach and a player. While he was a student living in Grace Hall, Rocket received a phone call that his friend’s father had passed. Without hesitation, Rocket sprinted across campus from Grace Hall to Alumni Hall to be with his friend. Rocket immediately helped his friend book a flight home and drove him to the airport.
In the chaos and emotions, Rocket completely forgot about football practice. When he arrived late to practice, he could hear his teammates proclaiming “Rocket is here!” and thought he was in trouble. Rocket was terrified to see Coach Holtz.
Coach Holtz drove by in his golf cart and invited Rocket to sit down with him. He didn’t yell or reprimand Rocket for missing practice but instead said that he loved him. As Rocket had tears running down his face and was reminded of losing his father when he was 10-years-old, he understood why Coach Holtz’s leadership went beyond the game. Coach Holtz saw what truly mattered: Love, Trust, and Commitment. That’s who Coach Holtz is—a Coach for Life.
I invite you to join us in honoring Coach Holtz’s legacy by supporting Holtz’s Heroes Foundation. Your generosity allows us to carry forward his mission of Love, Trust, and Commitment to serve others. Whether you’ve already donated or plan to during this giving season, we are grateful for your support.
Thank you for being part of this incredible family. Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed holiday season!
Love, Trust, and Commitment.
Reggie Brooks
Executive Director
rbrooks@holtzsheroes.org
Holtz’s Heroes Video
Watch this video to hear about the powerful impact Holtz’s Heroes Foundation has on impacting lives from Coach Lou Holtz, Executive Director Reggie Brooks, Presidents Justin Meko and Corny Southhall, and Board Members Jeremy Akers and Steve Beuerlein.
Holtz’s Heroes Foundation Mission
Holtz’s Heroes Foundation, Inc. is not a political organization. Holtz’s Heroes Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and extending the legacy of Love, Trust, and Commitment exemplified by Coach Lou Holtz and his players, coaches, and staff.
Holtz’s Heroes Foundation, Inc.
- Supports former student-athletes facing financial, physical, or mental hardships
- Provides scholarship aid to deserving youth
- Serves communities in need through charitable works
Holtz's Heroes Foundation is not affiliated with the University of Notre Dame's development office.
