Meet Captain Brave: The 6-Year-Old Who Became A Boise State Football Hero

December 9, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Boise, Idaho.

Six-year-old Weston Derrick, also known as "Captain Brave", has brought his courage and infectious smile to the Boise State Broncos, thanks to Team IMPACT, a nonprofit that pairs children facing serious illness or disability with college sports teams.

Derrick Weston | Credit: Boise State Football / Facebook

For Weston, who lives with a rare form of leukodystrophy that impacts his brain and development, joining the Broncos in February 2024 has been nothing short of life-changing.

A Journey of Strength

Weston was only three years old when his parents, Ashley and Gabe, received the devastating diagnosis that his condition would be life-limiting and gradually take away his abilities.

"It just didn’t feel real, it felt like a nightmare. It still does,” Ashley shared with KTVB 7. Despite the heartbreak, Weston’s resilience has been a beacon of hope for his family.

Boise State Football / Facebook

Welcome to the Broncos

When Ashley reached out to Team IMPACT, it wasn’t long before Weston was matched with the Boise State football team. From day one, the players went above and beyond to make him feel like part of the family.

“They started coming to his school to have lunch with him and stayed for recess,” Ashley explained. “All the kids thought it was pretty cool.”

Weston even received his very own Boise State jersey with the name "Captain Brave" on the back.

The highlight of Weston’s experience came on signing day, when the Broncos welcomed him to the team with an unforgettable ceremony.

“The moment we got out of the car, Coach Spencer Danielson and the players were there, clapping and cheering,” Gabe recalled. “The entire team was hooping and hollering as Weston walked in—it was electric.”

Credit: Boise State Football / Facebook

A Season to Remember

As an official Bronco, Weston’s impact on the team has been immense. He attended a spring game where he scored an unforgettable touchdown, earning cheers from fans and teammates alike.

This season, he’s been a familiar face at home games, inspiring the team and the crowd with his bravery and joy.

Meet Weston in the video below!