Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame Irish: A Masterclass in the Power of Shared Experience

College sports have always been about more than the final score. They’re about the stories that unfold, the bonds that form, and the resilience that grows. Few embody this better than Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame Irish, who remind us that shared experience is not just a cornerstone of team success—it’s one of the most powerful tools for human connection and healing.

Freeman’s Journey: Resilience in Action

Marcus Freeman’s path is one defined by adversity and determination. As the son of an African American father and a Korean mother, he grew up navigating questions of identity and belonging. On the field at Ohio State, he established himself as a talented linebacker. But his professional career came to an abrupt end when a heart condition was discovered during training camp with the Indianapolis Colts.

Rather than let that diagnosis limit his future, Freeman embraced a new purpose: to shape the next generation of athletes. His own lived experience—of triumph, setbacks, and resilience—has become the foundation of his leadership.

Leadership Rooted in Shared Experience

At Notre Dame, Freeman leads with empathy and authenticity. His approach reflects a deep understanding of the challenges his athletes face—not just on the field but in their personal lives. He has lived the pressures of elite competition, the identity struggles of young adulthood, and the vulnerability that comes with unexpected change.

Under his leadership, the Notre Dame football program has become a testament to the power of shared experience. Whether it’s the grind of practice, the thrill of victory, or the lessons learned in defeat, Freeman ensures that his players navigate these moments together.

This sense of unity isn’t just about building a better team. It’s about creating a support system where athletes feel seen and understood. In a world where the mental health challenges of athletes are too often overlooked, Freeman’s leadership style offers a model for connection and care.

Why Shared Experience Matters

At Onrise, we know that shared experience is one of the most powerful tools for mental health. Athletes thrive when they feel supported by a team—not just in their physical performance but in their mental and emotional well-being.

Freeman’s leadership embodies this truth. His ability to connect authentically with his players—to meet them where they are, with both compassion and accountability—illustrates the impact of shared experience in its purest form.

Lessons Beyond the Field

Marcus Freeman’s story is more than a coaching philosophy; it’s a blueprint for how we can all show up for each other. Whether in sports, business, or everyday life, shared experience has the power to bridge divides and build resilience.

The Notre Dame Irish are proof that when we come together—sharing the highs, the lows, and everything in between—we create a foundation for growth and success that extends far beyond the field.

At Onrise, we’re committed to supporting athletes through every phase of their journey. From urgent mental health care available today, to programs designed to strengthen team dynamics and leadership, we provide the tools and care athletes need to thrive.

If you’re ready to take the next step in supporting your athletes—whether as a coach, athletic director, or team owner—reach out to us. Let’s work together to build stronger teams, healthier athletes, and a brighter future.