Rudy Ruettiger Speaker Biography
Famed Football Player from the University of Notre Dame and Inspiration for the Blockbuster Film Rudy
Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger is proof that grit can defy gravity. Born the third of 14 children to a blue-collar family in Joliet, Illinois, Rudy defied expectations in every sense. He overcame academic hurdles, athletic limitations, and endless rejection to become one of the most inspirational figures in collegiate sports history. In just twenty-seven seconds of game time at Notre Dame, Rudy carved out a legacy that has lasted for decades. As chants of “RU-DY! RU-DY!” echoed across the stadium, he sacked the quarterback in his one and only play for the Fighting Irish. Against all odds, Rudy became the only player in Notre Dame’s storied history to be carried off the field on the shoulders of his teammates. Today, he stands as the best speaker for first responders and anyone who understands what it means to fight for a dream under pressure.
Feature Film
Rudy’s legendary story made the leap from college turf to silver screen with the 1993 release of RUDY. Produced by TRISTAR and brought to life by Angelo Pizzo and David Anspaugh—the same creative duo behind HOOSIERS—the film struck a national chord. Earning glowing praise from critics including “Two Thumbs Up” from Siskel and Ebert, RUDY became an enduring classic. More than three decades later, its message of perseverance continues to inspire everyone from young athletes to seasoned professionals. While many sports movies come and go, RUDY endures because its heart is real. Moreover, its legacy makes Rudy not just a subject of admiration, but a symbol of hope for people facing extraordinary odds—especially those on the front lines, like first responders, who thrive under similar high-pressure circumstances.
Acclaimed Speaker
As a keynote speaker, Rudy brings the same fiery determination to the stage that he once brought to the football field. With humor, heart, and a storyteller’s timing, he energizes every audience he meets. From Fortune 500 executives to elementary school students, his signature message—“YES I CAN”—resonates across generations. Rudy’s voice carries the weight of lived experience, making his talks more than motivational—they are transformational. Not surprisingly, he’s been booked alongside icons such as President George H.W. Bush, Joe Montana, Zig Ziglar, and General Colin Powell. Whether speaking to a packed convention hall or a group of emergency personnel, Rudy connects. His authenticity makes him the best speaker for first responders who need to be reminded that perseverance still wins. Time and again, audiences leap to their feet in applause, chanting “RU-DY! RU-DY!” long after he exits the stage.
Media Appearances
Because of his cultural impact and universal appeal, Rudy has been featured widely in both sports and mainstream media. He has appeared on major platforms including People Magazine, Sports Illustrated, Inside Sports, Entertainment Tonight, and Good Morning America. His story has been captured by NFL Films and The 700 Club, and he’s been a guest on popular talk shows like Regis and Kathie Lee and The Montel Williams Show. These appearances highlight not just his fame, but his continued relevance. Rudy is not a relic from the past—he’s a living, breathing motivator who speaks directly to modern audiences. His message is as important now as ever, especially for professions where courage and endurance are required daily.
Books and Publications
Rudy has extended his reach beyond the stage and screen into publishing, offering written wisdom that captures the essence of his message. His books—Rudy’s Insights for Winning in Life, Rudy’s Lessons for Young Champions, and Rudy & Friends—serve as roadmaps for anyone chasing a dream. In 2012, his autobiography Rudy: My Story offered an unfiltered look into the decade-long journey it took to bring his life to the big screen. He also produced the Dream Power audio series, giving fans and followers a more intimate connection to his teachings. Each publication reinforces his role not just as a motivational speaker, but as an architect of transformation, particularly for those who serve others in high-stakes environments like fire, EMS, and law enforcement.
Philanthropic Efforts
True to form, Rudy’s impact stretches far beyond personal success. Through the Rudy Foundation, he helps children around the world tap into their full potential. The Foundation focuses on programs that develop character, courage, and resilience—traits Rudy himself exemplifies. In particular, the Rudy Award Program celebrates young people who show perseverance, heart, and an unwavering drive to improve. It’s not about being the best—it’s about giving your best. For first responders and community heroes, Rudy’s efforts offer a reminder that greatness comes not from titles or accolades, but from the determination to rise every day and serve. His philanthropic mission completes the picture of a man who doesn’t just inspire—he uplifts.
Rudy Ruettiger Speaking Topics
RUDY RUETTIGER - DREAM BIG AND NEVER QUIT
RUDY discusses his 10 insights for winning in life from his book RUDY’S INSIGHTS and combines those thoughts with his story from his most current book RUDY MY STORY. This journey will give audiences a source for positive thoughts and inspiration that they can apply to their own lives both on and off the job. Creating stronger individuals with a positive mind set raises the bar and creates a stronger team in the workplace to accomplish the common goals of the company.
VOICES OF RUDY
Rudy talks about how to tune out the negative voices in our head that stop our progress. He shows us how to replace those thoughts with the positive voices that help to propel us forward and keep us focused to forge ahead. Rudy will show video clips from his own life and how he overcame the struggles on the journey to his Dream.
RUDY RUETTIGER - THE JOURNEY TO THE MOVIE
Rudy tells his story and shares his journey from getting into Notre Dame to Making the movie RUDY! His presentation is choreographed to a video production that brings this true story to life for the audience. He offers a 15 min Q&A immediately following his presentation and closes with a meet and greet for photos and autographs with your top executives and sponsors.
Corporate Program
Rudy will come to your organization and give his motivational presentation. Rudy’s message of overcoming obstacles and staying on track to reach your dreams will inspire your audience and bring them to their feet! Rudy’s presentation includes a video production that touches the spirit and impacts the audience with an overwhelming “Yes I can” attitude.
University Program
Rudy will come to your college or university and give his motivational presentation to the students. His message of overcoming obstacles and staying on track to reach your Dreams will inspire your audience and bring them to their feet! Rudy's presentation includes a video production that touches the spirit and impacts the students with an overwhelming "Yes I Can" attitude. To add a special touch to your event and keep Rudy's message alive in your group, Rudy will be available immediately following the event to meet and greet the audience and offer his books and tapes to your group along with a personalized autograph on any item purchased. You can choose Option 1 or 2. Option 1: The college or university may purchase any of Rudy's product in advance at a discount, and may either use it as a give-a-way or as a fundraiser to sell at retail after the event. Option 2: Rudy will have his product available for sale after the event at no expense to the client. All proceeds from product sales goes to the Rudy Foundation for children.
Corporate Training Program
The Rudy Corporate Training Program was established for organizations who want a follow-up program to Rudy’s Motivational Keynote Presentation. Rudy kicks off the RUDY Corporate Training Program with an inspirational, uplifting, Motivational Key note presentation accompanied by a video production. Then our Rudy Corporate Trainer will show your group how to implement Rudy’s message into their lives everyday, work together as a team, accomplish their goals, overcome obstacles, and get the results needed to take your company to the next level. Rudy International has a team of RUDY Corporate Trainers. Our staff will obtain a detailed company profile on your company in order to recommend the RUDY corporate trainer that would best fit the needs of your group. Then our staff will schedule a conference call between you and your Rudy Corporate Trainer to outline your custom made corporate training program. This program will give your team something to look forward to everyday and a reason to make things happen!
Rudy Ruettiger Videos
Rudy Ruettiger Speaker Testimonials
"Wow! This is what our members are still saying three weeks after your appearance. Your presentation at the North Carolina Auto Dealers Annual Convention last month in Asheville, North Carolina was truly inspirational. Thank you for your part in making our convention such a great success."
- Robert J. Glaser | Executive Vice President North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association
"I want to express my appreciation for the incredible presentation you gave to the Business Development department at the United Parcel Service. The likelihood of a repeat performance to other areas of our company has greatly increased because of the positive outcome. The investment in our people was well worth the monetary cost to UPS. It was great to hear the comments from our management team about how positively you affected their feelings about doing their personal best in their job as well as in their daily life."
- Carla Atencio | United Parcel Service
"Just a note to let you know how pleased I am with your presentation to our group in Hawaii. You exceeded all of my expectations and based on the comments I have heard from our group you exceeded theirs as well. Our people really enjoyed your message and appreciated the opportunity to meet you after the presentation."
- Terry Carstens | Physicians Mutual Insurance Company
"Thank you for speaking at our Region One Annual Lenders Meeting. Many, many of our lenders and other guests have been calling me or writing notes to let us know how much they enjoyed your presentation. Some stated how they have already put some of your ideas to work in their lives. We will also be placing a rather large order for additional books. The requests are still flowing in."
- Daniel J. Mekemson | First VP,Firstar Home Mortgage Corporation
