Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love has won the 2025 Disney Spirit Award. This yearly award goes to the most inspiring person in college football. Love earned the honor by showing incredible leadership and overcoming unique personal challenges. He became a role model both on and off the field. Walt Disney World announced Love as the award recipient on Friday, December 5. He will get his official presentation on ESPN during the Home Depot College Football Award Show on December 12.
Embracing Neurodiversity and Building Strength – Growing up in St. Louis, Love had some difficulties with social and daily routines. Doctors suggested he might be on the neurodiversity spectrum. However, his parents chose to simply support him without labeling him. They wanted “Jeremiyah to be Jeremiyah.”
“It gives me power over my own life,” Love shared in a recent ESPN feature. “I accept who I am, and that makes me stronger.”
Adam Ball, Vice President of ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, talked about the win. “Jeremiyah’s story proves that real strength comes from being authentic,” Ball said. “His ability to inspire others makes him the perfect choice for the Disney Spirit Award this year.”
A Role Model Beyond the Field
Love is now a major role model for other neurodivergent athletes. His message is simple: your uniqueness can be your biggest advantage.
He talks openly with his teammates and young fans. He encourages them to be themselves and ask for help when they need it. “I’ve been through a lot to get here,” Jeremiyah said. “But those bumps in the road made me who I am. This award shows how far hard work and staying true to yourself can get you.”
Away from the field, Love co-wrote a comic book with his dad called “Jeremonstar.” The book uses his own life to show kids that success is about standing out, not fitting in.
He also volunteers a lot, focusing on mental health and inclusion. This past summer, the Notre Dame Running Back hosted a free football camp in South Bend for 200 kids. Plus, he runs financial workshops for high schoolers, teaching them about credit and insurance.
Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman praised his player. “The Disney Spirit Award is about being authentic, courageous, and making an impact,” Freeman said. “Jeremiyah Love’s authenticity is inspiring to everyone.”
On-Field Success: A Top College Football Running Back
Love also had a great season on the field. He rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also had 27 catches for 280 yards and three more scores. His playmaking helped Notre Dame get a top-10 national ranking.
Because of this, he is a finalist for major awards like the Doak Walker Award (top running back) and the Maxwell Award (most outstanding player).
Since 1996, the Walt Disney World Resort has given the Disney Spirit Award to college football figures who show great resilience and selflessness. Love is the 30th winner of the award and the first from Notre Dame.
