Reviving Tradition with a Holy Mission

Marcus Freeman, the head coach of Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish, has taken the helm of a program yearning for its first national football championship since 1988. With a blend of faith and a commitment to excellence, Freeman attributes much of the team’s recent success to his players and his spiritual journey, emphasizing that both have significantly shaped the trajectory of the program.

A Decision that Changed Everything

Freeman’s football journey began as the linebackers coach and defensive coordinator for Notre Dame under Brian Kelly. When Kelly departed for Louisiana State University in 2021, Freeman faced a pivotal choice: follow his mentor or remain at Notre Dame. Choosing loyalty over opportunity, he stayed, setting the stage for a transformative chapter in his coaching career.

Reinstating Pregame Mass: A Personal Touch

On December 3, 2021, Freeman was officially promoted to head coach. One of his first moves was to revive a cherished team tradition—attending pregame Mass together before home games. Interestingly, Freeman was not yet a Catholic at that time. Reflecting on the tradition, he said, “I remember being a recruit in high school, attending a Notre Dame game and watching the team come out of the basilica after pregame Mass. I thought that was the coolest thing.”

Previously, the pregame Mass tradition had faded away, but Freeman was determined to bring it back. “When I became head coach, I spoke with the administration about why it was discontinued and made it a priority to restore it. It was important to me,” he stated.

A Journey to Faith: From Christian to Catholic

Although raised in a Christian environment, Freeman’s formal journey toward Catholicism culminated with his baptism and first Holy Communion in 2022. Guided by Father Nate Wills, the team chaplain, Freeman embraced the faith in a deeply personal manner. “Being at Notre Dame is such a unique experience. It’s a place where your faith—whatever that may be—is encouraged to grow,” Freeman expressed. “For me, that journey led to Catholicism, but it’s really about having a belief in something bigger than yourself.”

Faith that Resonates on the Field

Freeman’s faith and personal journey have not only influenced his life but have resonated throughout the entire team culture. Players like quarterback Riley Leonard exemplify this synergy between athletics and spirituality. Leonard, who transferred to Notre Dame after a season-ending injury at Duke, shared, “Notre Dame was my first and only stop in the transfer portal. I remember sitting in my room, praying at night: ‘Jesus, Lord, please just give me something, give me an offer.’ The next day, He delivered.”

Leonard praised Freeman’s humility and openness about his faith, stating, “He doesn’t shy away from his beliefs. It’s inspiring for all of us.”

Integrating Faith into Team Dynamics

Freeman’s approach to coaching emphasizes the importance of spirituality. “Our players participate in Bible studies,” he remarked. “I personally have a strong faith, and it really comes down to trusting without always needing evidence—trusting beyond what you can see and know. That’s the essence of faith, and we don’t shy away from talking about it. It’s important to us.”

Chasing Championship Glory

As Freeman prepares to lead his team into the national championship game—the first for Notre Dame since Lou Holtz’s era—he embodies the essence of combining faith, tradition, and the ambition to succeed on the football field. A victory would not only seal his name in Notre Dame history but also symbolize the culmination of a journey that intertwines his personal transformation with the collective spirit of the Fighting Irish.

A Legacy of Faith in the Facade of Competition

A meaningful sign above the eastern entrance of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at Notre Dame encapsulates the team’s ethos: “God, Country, Notre Dame, In Glory Everlasting.” This phrase reflects the commitment of Freeman and his players to uphold these values as they pursue excellence, both on and off the field. Their journey represents not just a quest for a championship but a deeper purpose fueled by faith and brotherhood.