BYU football players are engaging in community service through the True Blue Hero program, which welcomes special guests to team practices each fall. According to a November 13 report, the program involves Director of Football Relations Jack Damuni preparing videos that detail the challenges faced by the honored individuals.
The True Blue Hero program, a name suggested by head coach Kalani Sitake, has been active every Thursday during the season since Sitake took over in 2016. Jack Damuni, who has served as Director of Football Relations since 2021, noted that the program has honored at least 138 heroes. The initiative allows players to connect with the community by visiting hospitals, group homes, and nursing homes.
In addition to local outreach, six players joined head coach Kalani Sitake on a humanitarian trip to Tonga in July of 2026. During that trip, the group participated in the ribbon cutting of the BYU Pathways Center, held a youth football camp and coaches clinic, visited the crown princess of Tonga, and visited patients at Vaiola Hospital. Other activities included an assembly at Liahona High School and a cultural visit to the village of Ha’akame.
The BYU football team also maintains a significant missionary program. Currently, 64 players on the team have served church missions, while approximately 25 players are currently serving. Jack Damuni stated that the program is special because players put their careers on hold to serve.
Damuni, who played safety for BYU in 1993 and 1994, said the service activities help the players stay humble and grounded. He noted that while fans may focus on game scores, the impact of small gestures, such as a handshake or a signature on a football, creates lasting relationships.
The True Blue Hero program evolved from a program called “Thursday’s Hero,” which was started by former BYU head coach Bronco Mendenhall in the mid-2000s. The program's goal is to provide a platform for players to impact lives beyond the football field.
