Notre Dame Icon To Speak In Elmhurst

ELMHURST, IL – Rudy Ruettiger, the Notre Dame player who inspired the movie "Rudy," is slated to speak later this month at Elmhurst University.

He is described as a "five foot nothin', a hundred and nothin' ... without a speck of athletic ability."

On Nov. 8, 1975, while fans chanted, "RU-DY! RU-DY!" Ruettiger sacked the quarterback in the only play in the only game action of his college football career, according to a news release from Elmhurst University. It lasted 27 seconds.

He was the first player in the school's history to be carried off the field on the shoulders of his teammates, the university said.

On Feb. 23, Ruettiger is scheduled to give the keynote address, "Tough Like Rudy: Teach. Overcome. Unite. Grow. Heal." It is part of the Niebuhr Center Teach-In.

The university said Ruettiger would share his story and talk about the importance of mental self-care and the power of reframing thoughts toward positivity and encouragement.

He is set to speak at 11:45 a.m. in the Founders Lounge at Frick Center, 190 Prospect Ave. Admission is free, but reservations are required because of limited seating. Visit the school's website for reservations.

The university also plans to show the movie "Rudy" at 6:30 p.m. the same day at R.A. Faganel Hall, 221 Walter St. Admission is free. No reservations are required.

Ruettiger is a graduate of Joliet Catholic Academy.