In a recent announcement by the Southeastern Conference, senior outside linebacker J.J. Weaver has been recognized for his outstanding community service efforts. Weaver, who hails from Louisville, Kentucky, has been actively involved in giving back to both his hometown community and the Lexington community since 2015.
During his high school days, Weaver established a foundation called “15 for Freddie” as a way to honor his grandfather, Freddie Weaver. This foundation focused on helping the homeless through various initiatives. Once he joined the University of Kentucky as a freshman, Weaver transformed his foundation into “The Perfect Fit.” This new community service organization drew inspiration from Weaver’s own unique physical characteristic – a six-finger right hand, a condition known as polydactyly.
Under “The Perfect Fit” umbrella, Weaver has organized numerous community service projects. In 2023, he led the “The Perfect Fit Bike Drive,” donating 111 bicycles to children in need. Additionally, he hosted a free football camp for kids in 2022 and created “Back to School with J.J.,” an event where he provided backpacks, school supplies, and free haircuts for 100 children.
Weaver’s community service efforts extend beyond these projects. This fall, he collaborated with the Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families to start a peer-led grief counseling group specifically for the members of the UK football team. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide support to players dealing with loss. Plans are already in motion to expand “The Perfect Fit Support Group” and offer this peer-led support to the wider UK student body in 2024.
Despite his impressive contributions off the field, Weaver has also excelled on the playing field. This season, he has accumulated 40 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and 5.0 sacks. He has showcased his versatility with two pass breakups, two quarterback hurries, two fumble recoveries, and a forced fumble. Weaver’s exceptional performances recently earned him the distinction of co-SEC Defensive Player of the Week. In addition, he was named the Governor’s Cup’s Most Valuable Player after his dominant display against No. 9 Louisville. During that game, Weaver recorded eight tackles, two fumble recoveries, a caused fumble, and a quarterback sack that proved to be game-changing.
With his remarkable contributions both on and off the field, Weaver’s impact has not gone unnoticed. He is currently a semifinalist for the esteemed Jason Witten Man of the Year award, a recognition that celebrates exceptional character and community service efforts in college football. Weaver’s dedication to making a positive difference sets an admirable example for athletes everywhere.
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