Dear Friends,
In 1927, Knute Rockne coached the first-ever rivalry game between Notre Dame and Navy. Coach Rockne started his second-string team in navy jerseys. Only five minutes into the game, the Irish trailed Navy, 6-0. Coach Rockne then had his starting lineup make a grand entrance wearing green jerseys. The Irish had a comeback win, beating Navy 19-6.
Throughout Notre Dame football history, head coaches have tried a variation of the wearing of the green to hype up the team and fans for big games. Coach Holtz’s players wore white jerseys with green numbers and green socks for the 1992 Sugar Bowl vs. Florida. The Irish won 39-28. Coach Holtz also outfitted the team in green for the 1995 Fiesta Bowl against Colorado.
Today, I write to you about wearing green for the most important game, the game of life.
May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. Green has been chosen internationally as the color that represents mental health awareness. Green represents hope, strength, and encouragement. Green highlights the commitment we have for individuals suffering mental illness. Green represents solidarity and reduces the stigmatism associated with mental illness. Green signals new beginnings, new life, and growth in nature.
If you are struggling with mental illness, we wear green for you. You do not have to struggle alone. Please reach out to me or any of our Holtz’s Heroes brothers.
We LOVE you.
We TRUST you.
We are COMMITTED to you.
We wear GREEN for you.
We are here to support your comeback WIN.
Reggie Brooks
Executive Director
rbrooks@holtzsheroes.org
Memorial Day
Holtz’s Heroes Foundation thanks all men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation. We remember and honor all United States military personnel who died while serving our country.
“Words are even more feeble on this Memorial Day, for the sight before us is that of a strong and good nation that stands in silence and remembers those who were loved and who, in return, loved their countrymen enough to die for them.”
Ronald Reagan
A Prayer for Holtz’s Heroes
By Fr. William Gurnee
Heavenly Father,
We celebrate the gift of heroes. As part of the Notre Dame family, we recognize the accomplishments of each athlete who has ever represented this beloved university. We recognize the sacrifice made by all those who put body, mind, and spirit on the line in pursuit of excellence.
Father, we recognize that despite all the sacrifices of time, talent, and heart, some of our family continue to face struggles. We refuse to leave them behind. As the family of Our Lady, we stand shoulder to shoulder with them until they receive the just reward of their labors.
We thank you for the leadership and example of Coach Holtz. As Jesus was tempted in the desert with the grandeurs of worldly allure, so has this good man been shown all the baubles and trappings of worldly success, and he has turned them down. Instead, he has remembered the men who have walked with him on the journey. Together, may they climb all the mountains put before them and may they continue to shine before the world in the midst of difficulties. Grant them the holy desire of life in you.
We ask all these things in the power of the Holy Spirit through Christ, Our Lord.
Amen.
Coach Holtz visits Notre Dame
Coach Holtz visited with Holtz’s Heroes President Cornelius Southall at Notre Dame. Love, Trust, Commitment.
Irish Legends 2024
It’s not too late to sign up! Join Coach Holtz and Holtz’s Heroes at Irish Legends 2024 on June 2-3 at Woodstone Country Club and Lodge in Danielsville, PA.
All proceeds from this event will support the Holtz’s Heroes Foundation and the Bethlehem Catholic General Scholarship Fund.
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.Save the Date
