Marcus Freeman, head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has led his team to their first National Championship appearance since 2012, aiming for their first title since 1988.
Freeman’s leadership philosophy, emphasizing personal development and mental resilience, has been instrumental in this achievement.
A cornerstone of Freeman’s approach is the concept of “Choose Hard,” which he introduced after observing his players during a strenuous workout session. He realized that embracing challenges was essential for growth and success. Freeman stated, “You can choose to go through the motions or you can choose to go as hard as you can.” This mindset encourages players to tackle difficulties head-on, fostering resilience both on and off the field.
To further instill this philosophy, Freeman invited Brian Johnson, author of “Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential,” to speak with the team. Johnson’s teachings on virtue and excellence resonated with the players, reinforcing the importance of mental fortitude. Sophomore cornerback Christian Gray reflected on the experience, saying, “If I have this, plus I have the faith and my relationship with God and Jesus, the sky is the limit.”
Freeman’s commitment to self-improvement extends beyond motivational talks. He integrates Stoic philosophy into the team’s culture, encouraging players to read and discuss works like “Discipline is Destiny: The Power of Self-Control” by Ryan Holiday. This practice aims to develop discipline and self-control, qualities essential for high-pressure situations.
The effectiveness of Freeman’s methods is evident in the team’s performance. Notre Dame’s focus on the “middle eight”—the last four minutes of the second quarter and the first four of the third—has been a strategic advantage. Dominating this period has allowed the team to gain momentum and secure victories against formidable opponents like Georgia and Penn State.
Freeman’s leadership has also had a broader impact on the coaching landscape. As the first Black/Asian American coach to lead a team to the national championship, his success challenges traditional norms and opens doors for minority coaches. Freeman, however, remains focused on the collective effort, stating, “You don’t get to this point by yourself.”
In summary, Marcus Freeman’s integration of self-help principles and emphasis on mental resilience have been pivotal in Notre Dame’s journey to the National Championship. By fostering a culture that embraces challenges and prioritizes personal growth, Freeman has not only transformed the team’s performance but also set a precedent for leadership in collegiate athletics.
