Celebrating Stories of Tradition, Unity, and Legacy
For those who walk the sacred grounds of Notre Dame, it is more than just a university or a football team. It is a living, breathing testament to tradition, unity, and excellence. Each member of the Legion of the Leprechaun carries a unique story that weaves together a tapestry of what Notre Dame means to us.
A Family’s Legacy
Samuel Burnett’s story begins with his grandfather, a quarterback at Nebraska in the 1940s. Despite his family’s allegiance to Nebraska, it was his mother’s fervent passion for Notre Dame that shaped his love for the university. “Watching Notre Dame every Saturday was a tradition with my mom,” he recalls. Her enthusiasm, combined with the sense of community he witnessed at friends’ houses, solidified his bond with Notre Dame. For Samuel, “you can learn what Notre Dame Football is, means, and stands for, just by watching a fan watch a game.”
Embracing Tradition
Kevin Hurne speaks to the rich traditions that define Notre Dame. From the Players Walk to the trumpets in the dome, each ritual adds to the magic of game day. “Year after year, you get to witness the greatest traditions in NCAA history,” he says, emphasizing that these experiences are what draw him back each season. Tom Tobin adds that a “peaceful aura falls over me every time I step on campus,” describing the University as his happy place, filled with cherished landmarks and memories.
The Campus Experience
For many, the beauty of the campus itself is a significant draw. Katee Slaubaugh and Matt Larkin both highlight the breathtaking sights, from the golden dome to the stadium. Matt encapsulates his awe with a quote from Rudy’s dad: “This is the most beautiful sight these eyes have ever seen.” Even those who have never set foot on campus, like Krystal Belmont, feel a profound connection to the respect and pride that Notre Dame embodies. “We are ND!” she proudly declares.
Game Day Magic
Irish Jtl paints a vivid picture of game day: the sounds of the Victory March, the sea of green, and the electrifying atmosphere in the stadium. Steve Rayburn, who has loved ND Football since he was a child, describes his first visit to the campus as a magical experience. “With all the pre-game traditions, you just walk around with the hairs standing up all over,” he recalls. Phil Miller echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the camaraderie of tailgating with fellow Legion members and cheering the Irish to victory.
A Sense of Community
The sense of community and belonging is a recurring theme among Legion members. Carl Schulze, Dan Marchildon, and RJ McGuire all highlight the unique feeling of family and unity that pervades every aspect of Notre Dame. “When you walk on the campus for the first time, you can feel the difference,” says RJ. This sense of belonging extends beyond game days, as Jim Simmons and Josh Haines point out, encompassing the university’s history, traditions, and the iconic symbols like the Golden Dome and Touchdown Jesus.
Lifelong Devotion
The stories of lifelong devotion to Notre Dame are as varied as they are heartfelt. Bryan Jones speaks of a family tradition that has woven Notre Dame into the fabric of his life. Rob Carbone reflects on the “Spirit of Notre Dame” that transcends time and place, while David Jeannotte reminisces about the awe he felt as a child watching the team with the gold helmets. Thomas Zakrzewski describes the campus on a crisp autumn day as a place of beauty, pageantry, and deep-rooted traditions.
An Inclusive Family
For many, Notre Dame represents more than just a school; it is a welcoming family. Vickey Yates Milligan appreciates that “there is never the ‘elite’ and the other folks,” highlighting the inclusivity and acceptance of the Notre Dame community. Jason Barker admires the balance between athletic excellence and academic integrity, while Hugh Gallagher likens the campus to the Vatican, “oozing with spirituality.”
The Enduring Spirit
The enduring spirit of Notre Dame is perhaps best captured by Ioannis Stavrakos, who recalls being welcomed into the Notre Dame family by Father Malloy. This spirit is not just a phrase but a lived reality for Legion members, a sentiment echoed by Michael Loeffler, who finds comfort and excitement every time he supports his favorite university.
Respect and Tradition
Jim Wulf shares his admiration for the respect Notre Dame fans show to opposing teams and their fans. “We love our University because of the diversity and ideals it stands for. We have the best fans and student body in the country,” he states proudly. Jim Geyer adds, “Tradition…unlike any other. Worldwide fan base…unlike any other. Respect…for God, for country and for Notre Dame. Rivalry – deep, yet respectful.”
Lee Welche III appreciates the university’s unyielding dedication to tradition, even when it may not serve the athletic department’s immediate interests. Sue Puschak’s family has held season tickets since 1929, a testament to the generational love and loyalty Notre Dame inspires.
Personal Connections
James Scott Bishop’s fandom began with watching condensed games on Sunday mornings. “I just love everything about Notre Dame!!” he exclaims. Sue Pries is enchanted by the energy of the campus and the goosebumps she gets walking into the stadium. Jim Riggs, growing up near South Bend, fondly remembers visiting a den full of Notre Dame memorabilia, igniting his lifelong passion.
Beth Philbrick Wood became an Irish fan through her husband and now considers Notre Dame her first stop when visiting South Bend. Tony Marseco is excited to share his first in-person game experience with his uncle, the same person who introduced him to Notre Dame football. Kate Weddle Brunelli praises the university’s dedication to academic and athletic excellence and its commitment to community service.
Lifelong Memories
Mike Keller’s earliest memory of cheering for Notre Dame involves Tim Brown. “I have just never thought of another team the way the Irish have gotten me,” he says. Kevin McNamara recounts the positive energy and kindness he experienced on campus, a place his son wanted to visit after beating an illness.
Dini Hobbs Mozeleski cherishes the memories of watching games with her father and their trips to Notre Dame. “When my Dad was buried, his casket, flowers, etc. were blue and gold,” she shares, highlighting the deep personal connections to the university. Kevin A. Murphy values the family atmosphere and the respectful treatment of visitors, reflecting the years of tradition passed through generations.
Neil Greeno commemorates his grandfather’s passing by instilling the same love and dedication for Notre Dame in his son. Kristina Kelly enjoys tailgating and watching games with friends, family, and fellow Legion members. David McGuire’s first game memory dates back to the 1970s, and he fondly recalls attending Freeman’s first win with his family.
Cherished Traditions
Laurie Leach is impressed by the politeness and respectfulness of Notre Dame students and athletes. She loves guiding visitors around the campus and witnessing their awe. Bill OConnor’s love for Notre Dame started with discovering his Irish heritage and the iconic mascot, and he dreams of visiting the campus one day.
John Baltes describes the overwhelming emotional experience of walking into Notre Dame Stadium. “I have a hard time keeping my composure,” he admits. Carl W. Loveless finds peace and beauty on the campus, where life’s stresses melt away. Steve Crowe treasures the family tradition of following Notre Dame sports, a passion passed down through generations.
Matthew Thomas Dew recalls the powerful experience of seeing the painting “Absolution Under Fire” in the campus art museum, and Ted Smith values the memories made with friends at Notre Dame games. Kevin Kelley’s family has been Irish fans for four generations, and he has brought many friends and family members to experience the campus and games.
Ryan Huffman celebrates the university’s independence, traditions, and the overall atmosphere, whether watching games in person or on TV. Patrick King eagerly anticipates attending his first game with his son, having been a fan since 1988. Jerod Wilcox remembers his first game, despite the weather, and the excitement of experiencing Notre Dame’s traditions and campus.
Enduring Passion
Chris Brust loves the history, rivalries, and iconic landscapes of Notre Dame. Jeff Debo’s fandom was inspired by his grandfather and father, and he continues to attend games with his children. Tom Lawver Sr. finds happiness in walking around the campus and enjoying its historic beauty.
Tracy Dodd-Urbanski describes Notre Dame as a way of life, a place of family, and a sanctuary that brought her peace during difficult times. Craig Robinson is moved to tears and anticipation every time he walks into the stadium. Patrick Miller admires the integrity and high standards of Notre Dame’s student-athletes and students.
Russell Gorsuch appreciates everything about Notre Dame, from the campus to the staff and athletes. Hugo Martinez looks forward to his first game, excited by the tradition and education Notre Dame offers. Paul Antisdel Jr. finds peace at The Grotto, feeling surrounded by loved ones who have passed.
Nick Martoccia loves the entire game day experience, from the bookstore to the player walk and the electric atmosphere in the stadium. Eddie Heilman cherishes growing up in South Bend and watching the players. Jacob Mohr enjoys planning Saturdays around Notre Dame football and creating memories with his best friend and his friend’s son.
As we gather to celebrate and share these stories, it becomes clear that Notre Dame is more than just a place. It is an experience, a community, and a legacy that continues to inspire and unite us all. Whether through the timeless traditions, the breathtaking campus, or the shared camaraderie, we are all part of something greater. We are Notre Dame.