Rudy Ruettiger continues to inspire by telling his story
SOUTH BEND, Ind. (BVM) –In 1993, “Rudy” was released in theaters, instantly becoming one of the most iconic sports movies of all time. Rudy Ruettiger, played by Sean Astin, fights his way onto the Notre Dame football team as a walk-on, being the epitome of an underdog story.
For those who do not know, “Rudy” is based on a true story.
How true is the movie?
For the most part, a lot of the film is true. It took years of being on the scout team for the 5-foot-6, 165–pound edge rusher to actually get into a game.
In the movie, head coach Dan Devine was not the most excited about allowing Ruettiger to dress, but in real life, it was the opposite. Devine wrote in his autobiography, “Simply Devine,” he claimed that he came up with the idea for him to dress, but was convinced by screenwriters that would not make the movie as compelling.
When Ruettinger did dress, he was able to get into the final game of his career and even recorded a sack. All of this is also true. Following the sack, the film accurately depicted Ruettinger being carried off the field on the shoulders of his teammates.
Ruettiger himself makes a cameo appearance in the film, standing behind his father during the game.
Where is he now?
Now 73-year-old Ruettiger is a motivational speaker who travels around the country telling his story.
🔥 Loving this talk by Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger. @TheRealRudy #SIS16 #socinn pic.twitter.com/9caG8YYFs1
— Bryan Alexandros (@balexandros) June 7, 2016
Ruettiger has a website set up where you can read all about his story, purchase merchandise and even book him as a speaker for an event.
He is also still involved with Notre Dame football, participating in an upcoming watch party on Sept. 3 for the Notre Dame-Ohio State game with proceeds going to the Ray Feo Scholarship Foundation.
While it has been nearly fifty years since Ruettiger played for the Fighting Irish, he continues to inspire others.
