What insights can you give to others who are striving for their Dream?

“First of all, I would recommend that you read my book, Rudy's Insights for Winning in Life.  It is a combination of real life experiences and the insights I learned along the way.  Also, you can listen to free audio programs on my website that will help to inspire you along the way.

Do what you really want to do.  That's a tough thing to say to people because some are caught in this vicious cycle of trying to make it in life, whether financially or by achieving status or whatever, and all that doesn't matter.  All that stuff that people think they need they don't need.  What you basically need is the peace within yourself and the belief that you're doing what you feel the right steps in life are.  It's a matter of actually taking a step towards your goal and accepting responsibility and accountability for that dream.  That's where people get stuck and don't chase the dream, because of those two things.

I committed to something and did not want to quit on it.  I think that's an important message too.  If you commit to something you have to follow through.  And a lot of us don't do that.  That's what I learned.  And commitment introduces new opportunity.  Again, it all falls back on accountability or responsibility.  I used to never really follow through on anything.  I left things hanging.  But that changed.  Once you make a decision, make the commitment. I still had to do what I had to do.  Whether it was cutting grass or cleaning bathrooms or selling cars to pay the rent, whatever it took to keep that commitment. 

With any Dream, there is always a Struggle.  The Struggle is gives us strength and Character, and prepares us for our Dream.  The Greater the Struggle, The Greater the Victory!! 

Don't let the words of others hold you back.  Persevere!  The closer you get to your Dream, new opportunities will open up for you. 

By achieving you Dreams, you will inspire others to go for their Dreams too!  Dreams create an exciting energy.  The Power of Life is in your Dreams!

Set your goals and take one step at a time.  Step by Step you will get their.   You will learn what you need to do.  Step by Step you will win!  Surround yourself with positive information that will inspire you – stay away from the people who do not believe in you –You may be able to help them someday!  Keep the Faith and Never Quit!”

Would you say looking back now that the movie exceeded your expectations?
”I'm going through my e-mails just this morning and I get a letter from a young guy who plays high school football.  He tells me he didn't play much this year and had a sprained ankle that sidelined him.  He says every night before his games he watches Rudy.  He knows the whole movie by heart.  And then I have another here from a kid who wants to play hockey but he's too small.  And another from a 12-year-old boy whose brother wants to play lacrosse but has a blockage in his kidney and has been in and out of the hospital.  He says his brother has worshipped Rudy since before he could walk and watches the movie almost anytime he gets a chance.  He says that the best Christmas present ever for him would be a phone call from me.  That's an indescribable feeling, you know?”

How do you handle that responsibility?  Do you feel qualified?
”Oh yeah. Absolutely.  Now I recognize that responsibility.  How cool is it to get these heartfelt letters from kids like this?  It means so much to them. . .and me.”

Did you realize that your story could have an impact like this?
”You see the hope and inspiration when the odds are stacked against you so high.  You stuck in there, you persevered, and you stuck to the commitment—and look at the rewards you're getting today.  That's how I feel.  That's the magic of it."

Why wasn't Rudy's name on his Jersey?

Rudy's name was not on the Jersey because it was a last minute decision to have him dress. There was no time to put his name on the Jersey.

How do you want to be remembered?

"I want to be remembered as someone that had a clear plan and passion for his Dream -- someone that wouldn't give up - someone who had persistence and an understanding of the "want to" --- clearly as someone that had an unwavering belief system that Never Quit!"

What do your children think and say about their famous father?

They think their Dad is cool! They are very proud of him and have developed little "Never Quit" attitudes of their own.

Rudy, tell us about your experience in the NAVY. How did your time in the military help you in your college years? How did your military service, your patriotism and sense of duty to your country help to shape your success?

The experience in the Navy set my goals in order and gave me more confidence because I did something totally unexpected by joining the Navy. The time in the military helped me to understand that you must develop your self esteem to get any where in life. The Navy helped my college journey many different ways. It really helped me to define the "want to" and the "know how" at Notre Dame. I eliminated the distractions and my goals were very clear. My Patriotism absolutely helped me. I grew up and understood the value of my father and his father and all the forefathers that have given us freedom --- I understood that commitment and realized that is was the "Team" that was important -- something bigger that myself.

“Sign up for the Rudy Club to stay in touch with me. You will get an autographed Rudy movie, autographed Rudy Hat, autographed postcard, free monthly newsletter, and access to join in on occasional online chat session. I look forward to hearing for you.” 
- God Bless You and All your Dreams! 
Rudy Ruettiger

If you have any questions to add to the Frequently Asked Questions page, you may email us your questions to rudystaff@rudyinternational.com The Rudy Staff will review all questions and will post new questions if they are approved.