NFL player Alec Ingold spoke to St. Norbert College student-athletes as part of a yearlong partnership with the athletics department.

NFL Player Inspires SNC Student-Athletes

A hometown hero returned to northeast Wisconsin and ignited a spark of inspiration in the hearts of St. Norbert College student-athletes. Miami Dolphins’ fullback Alec Ingold was on campus this spring to talk about his journey from Suamico, Wis., to the Wisconsin Badgers, to the NFL.

Ingold’s speech marked the pinnacle of a yearlong partnership between him and the college’s athletics department, through which he mentored and motivated Green Knights student-athletes.

Last year, Ingold published his book, titled “The Seven Crucibles: An Inspirational Game Plan for Overcoming Adversity in Your Life.” During his partnership with St. Norbert athletics, Ingold and head coaches focused on a number of those crucibles that would benefit student-athletes. Ingold also met virtually throughout the year with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and team captains.

“One of our department of athletics pillars is the student-athlete experience,” said Cam Fuller, athletics director. “Alec has done a remarkable job of inspiring our coaches and student-athletes on how to maximize their performance in the classroom and on the playing surface.”

Ingold’s work with SNC student-athletes wasn’t just about football; it was about imparting life lessons gleaned from overcoming adversities. “How you are able to use those moments of adversity in your life to fuel what’s next, to be the best version of yourself,” Ingold said in an interview with local news media after the keynote.

His narrative resonated deeply, drawing parallels between his struggles and the universal human experience. “Talking undrafted, breaking ribs when I was with the Raiders. Talking about contract extensions not happening, happening at a later time, and not putting your value externally,” he reflected.

Ingold has earned accolades both on and off the field. He was a two-time Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee and secured his first Pro Bowl nod last season. Yet, for him, it’s not about resting on laurels but striving for continuous improvement.

As he prepares for his sixth season, Ingold’s message lingers: Embrace adversity, strive for excellence and never stop evolving.

May 30, 2024