It took years of fierce determination to overcome obstacles and criticisms, yet Rudy achieved his first dream - to attend Notre Dame and play football for the Fighting Irish. As fans cheered "RU-DY, RU-DY," he sacked the quarterback in the last 27 seconds of the only play in the only game of his college football career. He is the only player in the school's history to be carried off the field on his teammates' shoulders.In 1993, TRISTAR Productions immortalized his life story with the blockbuster film, RUDY. The critically acclaimed film received outstanding reviews and continues to inspire millions worldwide.

Rudy has been featured in several publications including People Magazine, Sports Illustrated, US Magazine, Readers Digest and Inside Sports. He has also appeared on several television programs such as The 700 Club, NFL Films, CBS Good Morning, ABC Good Morning America, NBC Talk Live, Regis and Kathy Lee, Montel Williams Show and Entertainment Tonight.

Rudy established the RUDY FOUNDATION, whose mission is to help children of all ages around the world reach their full potential. The Rudy Foundation develops and supports programs that positively impact the lives of children cognitively, emotionally, physically and spiritually. The Rudy Award program was created to recognize children who make an outstanding, exceptional effort to do their personal best and build the qualities of Character, Courage, Contribution and Commitment into their lives everyday.

In addition to his motivational speaking and community contributions, Rudy has also co-authored several books, including: Rudy's Insights for Winning in Life, Rudy's Lessons for Young Champions, and Rudy & Friends.

Today, a highly sought-after motivational speaker, Rudy entertains international corporate audiences with a unique, passionate and heartfelt style of communicating. He reaches school children, university students and professional athletes with the same enthusiasm, portraying the human spirit that comes from his personal experiences of adversity and triumph.