Trust, Love, and Commitment: Lou's Life Lessons

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Former Notre Dame player Chris Zorich said coach Lou Holtz taught him lessons that went far beyond football. 

Zorich, who later went on to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, recalled the philosophy, trust, love, and commitment, Holtz lived by during his time leading the Fighting Irish. 

A kid from Chicago's south side, Zorich said trust and commitment weren't things he talked about before coming to Notre Dame. That changed when Holtz recruited him to play for the Irish. 

“First year, I had some issues, I had some aggression issues let’s say, he had to kick me out of practice. But those were the moments were teaching moments. And I have a photo in the next room of showing how much he loved me by yelling at me on the field," said Zorich.

Zorich said those difficult moments became teaching moments that strengthened their relationship. 

Years later, after making it to the NFL with the Chicago Bears, Zorich said he returned to South Bend to thank his former coach. 

"I asked him for a meeting, came back to South Bend, I was just like coach, um, thank you. He said what’s up and I was like the things you taught me from a life perspective, being a man.”

Holtz remained an important presence throughout many milestones of Zorich's life, from football celebrations to personal moments.

Zorich said Holtz's philosophy continues to carry weight even today. 

Holtz's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.