By Carin McDonald, Principal
CMM Strategic Communications
September 16, 2025 – The roar of the crowd, smell of autumn air, vibrant sea of team colors – there’s nothing quite like the experience of a college football game. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a spectacle of passion, tradition and unwavering dedication. For me, the experience is deeply personal. My dad (who never went to college) raised my three brothers and me to be Fighting Irish fans. Now, having married an avid fan and raising two of our own it’s a legacy of faith, family and college football that defines our weekends.
And as I reflect on this past weekend’s visit to the University of Notre Dame for the game against Texas A&M, it struck me how deeply the lessons learned on the gridiron, particularly at an institution steeped in such rich history and philosophy, resonate in the world of business.
Notre Dame isn’t just a university; it’s an ethos. Known as the Fighting Irish, it embodies a spirit of resilience, integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence that extends far beyond the field. The traditions – Touchdown Jesus, the Golden Dome, the “Play Like a Champion Today” sign – are not mere adornments; they are daily reminders of a philosophy that champions effort, teamwork and an unshakeable commitment to a higher purpose.
Watching the game unfold against a formidable Texas A&M, you could see these principles in action. Every snap, every tackle, every strategic timeout was a testament to preparation, adaptability and the ability to execute under pressure. And while the final score is certainly important (ND lost by one), the true lesson lies in the process, the journey and the inherent values demonstrated by both teams.
So, how does this translate to the boardroom or the startup pitch?
- The Power of Tradition and Brand Identity: Notre Dame’s brand is instantly recognizable, built on decades of tradition, academic rigor and athletic achievement. In business, a strong brand identity, built on consistent values and a compelling story, fosters trust, loyalty and a competitive edge. What is your company’s “Golden Dome” or the elements that define its unique character and inspire devotion?
- The “Play Like a Champion Today” Mentality: That iconic sign in the tunnel isn’t just for show. It’s a daily call to elevate performance, to bring your A-game, regardless of the opponent or the challenge. In business, this translates to striving for excellence in every project, every client interaction and every innovation. It’s about having a mindset that constantly seeks improvement and refuses to settle for mediocrity.
- Strategic Game Planning and Adaptability: An athletic game is a chess match. Coaches meticulously plan, but they must also be agile, adapting their strategies in real-time based on the opponent’s moves and the evolving dynamics of the game. Similarly, in business, while long-term strategies are crucial, the ability to pivot, innovate and respond quickly to market shifts is paramount for sustained success.
- The Strength of a Unified Team: No matter how talented an individual player is, every team’s success hinges on its collective effort. Each player has a role, and when executed in harmony, it creates an unstoppable force. Businesses thrive when teams collaborate effectively, leveraging individual strengths toward shared goals. Silos and internal competition can be as detrimental as fumbled passes.
- Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Football is a game of highs and lows. Fumbles happen, penalties are called and momentum shifts. The best teams, like the best businesses, don’t crumble under pressure. They regroup, learn from setbacks and come back stronger. It’s important to remember that every loss offers a unique opportunity for introspection. Analyzing what went wrong, identifying weaknesses and adjusting the playbook for the next challenge are all critical lessons learned from adversity.
As I left Notre Dame for the 10-hour drive home, the echoes of the fight song still ringing in my ears, I wasn’t just reflecting on a football game and the memories shared with friends, my husband and son. I was contemplating the timeless principles of dedication, strategy and teamwork that are not only foundational to athletic success but are also the bedrock of any thriving business endeavor. The lessons from the hallowed grounds of Notre Dame, where tradition meets relentless ambition, offer a powerful playbook for anyone looking to achieve greatness, both on and off the field.
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