Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger has inspired generations with his iconic story of beating the odds to achieve his dream of playing football for the University of Notre Dame.
Ruettiger is widely recognized as part of Notre Dame’s storied history on the gridiron. On Nov. 8, 1975, as fans cheered “RU-DY! RU-DY!” this “five foot nothin’, a hundred and nothin’ … without a speck of athletic ability” sacked the quarterback on the only play in the only game action of his college football career, in the last 27 seconds of the contest. He is the first player in the school’s history to be carried off the field on the shoulders of his teammates.
At this year’s Niebuhr Center Teach-In, Ruettiger will give the keynote address, “TOUGH Like Rudy: Teach. Overcome. Unite. Grow. Heal.” He will share his compelling story and also will discuss the importance of mental self-care and the power of reframing thoughts toward positivity, inspiration and encouragement.
Today, Rudy Ruettiger is an Emmy Award-winning motivational speaker, author and producer. He also is co-founder of the Rudy Foundation, whose mission is to strengthen communities by offering scholarships in education, sports and the performing arts.
“TOUGH Like Rudy” will be held on Thursday, Feb. 23, at 11:45 a.m. in the Frick Center, Founders Lounge. Admission is free but reservations are required (due to limited seating).
Catch the Movie!
Later that evening, Elmhurst University will host a free screening of Rudy, starring Sean Astin in the title role of the 1993 blockbuster film based on Ruettiger’s journey to Notre Dame. The movie will begin at 6:30 p.m. in R.A. Faganel Hall. Admission is free and no reservations are required.