Dear Holtz’s Heroes Family,
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. I’ve seen this battle up close—in my own family. My brother has survived two brain aneurysms and walking that journey with him changed everything for me. I saw the toll it took on his mind, his emotions, his identity. I saw how quiet the suffering can be—how easy it is to miss the signs until it’s nearly too late.
And I’ve seen too many others—especially former athletes and fathers—struggle in silence with undiagnosed mental health challenges, traumatic brain injuries, depression, and addiction. Often, these aren’t isolated issues—they’re layered, messy, and real.
We’re building a movement. One rooted in love, trust, and commitment. A space where silence is broken, stigma is shattered, and healing is possible—even after the hardest chapters.
When someone we love loses their battle with mental health, the pain doesn’t end. Let’s keep showing up for the wives, daughters, sons, and parents left behind. That support still matters.
Mental Health Awareness Month is not just about raising awareness—it’s about taking action.
If you’re ready to be part of this—through listening, sharing, connecting, or simply being present—reach out to me. Because one of the most powerful things we can do is stand beside each other.
Remember—players come and go, but teammates are forever.
Love. Trust. Commitment.
Reggie Brooks
Executive Director
rbrooks@holtzsheroes.org
Reunion Weekend Schedule
Friday, September 12, 2025
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Food Drive – Graham Family Hall
Saturday, September 13, 2025
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Reunion Brunch – Heritage Hall
Tailgate & Kickoff TBD
Hotel
A room block has been reserved at Holiday-Inn Express South Bend- Notre Dame for $349/night. Room block reservations are available on a first come, first serve basis.
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.
