Rudy Ruettiger is an Emmy Award-winning motivational speaker, author, and producer. His early life and athletic career were the inspiration for the 1993 film "Rudy," starring Sean Astin.

Ruettiger carved his name into history books as a member of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team when he sacked the opposing team's quarterback in the last 27 seconds of the contest -- his only play in the only game of his college football career. His life story was immortalized in the critically acclaimed film, "Rudy," one of the most beloved and best-known sports movies of all time.

Ruettiger's message of overcoming obstacles and persevering through adversity continues in his work as speaker, published author, and co-founder of the Rudy Foundation, whose mission is to strengthen communities by offering scholarships in education, sports and the performing arts.

Inspirational, Football, Education Professionals, Overcoming Adversity, Elementary Educators, Athlete, Entertainers, Success, Christian, Christian speakers, Religious, Religious speakers, Literacy, Personal Story, Disability, Family & Parenting, Children, Motivational, College, Education Industry, Education, Celebrity, Diversity Topics, Sports Leadership, Business, Commencement, Sports Motivation, Sports Speakers, Sales, Performance Measurement, Storytelling,