The bye week is here. No kickoff under the lights, no roar of the stadium—but that doesn’t mean the Fighting Irish spirit takes a rest. This week, the team we cheer for is bigger than football.
Hunger is a story we can end. And just like on the field, it takes teamwork. That’s why Holtz’s Heroes Foundation, Inc. is stepping up in a new way: hosting a food drive the Friday of every home game this season at Graham Family Hall. It’s a chance to carry our Irish spirit off the gridiron and into the community.
And they’re kicking things off in style. At the first home game vs. Texas A&M, word has it that Rocket Ismail and Jerome Bettis may be spotted on the quad—playing a little cornhole and rallying fans to join the fight. Who wouldn’t want to have some fun and do some good at the same time?
Here’s the game plan:
- Every dollar donated provides up to 5 meals or 8 pounds of food—fuel and hope for families who need it most.
- Fans can bring nonperishable food items to Graham Family Hall on home football Fridays.
- Or, you can donate online anytime at give.feedindiana.org.
So while the Irish are on their bye week, let’s get off the bench ourselves. Let’s show that the Notre Dame family is about more than Saturday victories—it’s about living out the values of service, generosity, and love for one another. Together, we can turn hunger into hope and help write a happy ending to the story of hunger.
WHO ARE HOLTZ’S HEROES?
Holtz’s Heroes is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and extending the legacy of Love, Trust, and Commitment, values inspired by Coach Lou Holtz. The foundation works to:
- Support former student-athletes facing financial, physical, or mental hardship
- Provide need-based scholarships for deserving youth
- Serve communities in need through charitable works
This season’s food drive initiative is just one more way they’re living out Coach Holtz’s challenge: “Do what’s right. Do your best. Show others you care.”
REUNION WEEKEND: A CELEBRATION OF LEGACY
And there’s even more to celebrate. Mark your calendars for Reunion Weekend, September 12–13, 2025:
- Friday, September 12 | 12–1 PM — Food Drive at Graham Family Hall
- Saturday, September 13 | 10 AM–12 PM — Reunion Brunch at Heritage Hall, followed by tailgating and the 7:30 PM kickoff
Reunion Weekend is a time for teammates—old and new—to honor one another, celebrate Coach Holtz’s impact, and share stories built on Love, Trust, and Commitment. Whether you’ve been part of this family for decades or are just reconnecting, this weekend is for you.
Join the fight. Feed hope. Go Irish.
