"STL In The Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter Podcast

Send us Fan MailIn the third installment of our conversation with Rudy Ruettiger, we dive into the far-reaching impact of his story — from Hollywood to the White House. Rudy shares remarkable behind-the-scenes moments from the film's release, including a private screening for President Bill Clinton, encounters with Presidents George H.W. and George W. Bush, and an unforgettable visit to the Oval Office.But the episode goes far beyond politics. Rudy reflects on how his story has inspired some of the biggest names in sports — from Kobe Bryant, who credits the film with keeping him from quitting basketball, to Jason Kelce, who watched Rudy with his brother during tough times at the University of Cincinnati. He also shares heartwarming stories of connecting with Milwaukee Brewers players, speaking at military academies, and even being chanted for by inmates during a prison ministry.Rudy also opens up about what's next — a newly pitched film project called The Interruption, inspired by a near-death experience in his own family, and his thoughts on today's college football culture, NIL, and what coaches like Dabo Swinney are doing right.A powerful, inspiring conversation about legacy, perseverance, and the unexpected ways one story can change the world.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, the Ken, Tom and Sherry sit down with Rudy Ruettiger — the real-life inspiration behind the iconic 1993 film Rudy — to hear the unfiltered story of how a blue-collar kid from a large family with no college expectations found his way to Notre Dame. Rudy shares candid memories of working in a power plant, the role Notre Dame football played in his working-class household, and the persistence and unlikely connections that ultimately got him onto the field and his story onto the big screen. From tracking down the screenwriter Angelo Pizzo to getting the film greenlit with Notre Dame's blessing in 48 hours, this episode is a compelling behind-the-scenes look at one of sports cinema's most beloved stories — and the real lessons in resilience, collaboration, and faith that made it possible.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to earn your place — on the field, in the military, and in life?In this debut episode, host Tom sits down with Pat Sarb, Notre Dame alum and Naval Academy veteran, and Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger, the real-life inspiration behind the iconic film Rudy. Together, they unpack the grit, loyalty, and character it takes to succeed when the odds are stacked against you.The conversation dives into college football culture, NIL and athlete mentality, military discipline and leadership, and why chasing passion — not money — is the only path to a life well lived. Rudy shares how the movie continues to inspire fans worldwide, and Pat reflects on walk-on perseverance, family, and paying it forward.Whether you're a football fan, a veteran, a coach, a parent, or someone chasing a dream others said was impossible — this episode is for you.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailJoin us as we sit down with Father Leo Spezia, the former team chaplain of the St. Louis Rams and Eureka’s Citizen of the Year 2025! 🏆 Father Leo’s dedication extends beyond the field, as shown by his honor at the FBI National Academy Alumni. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, passion, and staying super busy baptizing all of Tom's grandchildren. Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan Mail Tom welcomes John Zarbock, Founder and CEO of BioFit, to chat about the unique fitness approach that’s got everyone talking. Tune in to hear how Tom’s own workout routine has been revolutionized by the personalized touch at BioFit. Perfect for those who love the thrill of the game and want to stay in top shape all year round!Hit play and get inspired! 💥For more info on BioFit visit  www.biofitstl.com Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan Mail🏈 New Episode Alert! 🚨 Episode 25 of STL In the Huddle dives into the world of high school football with Michael Stewart, Marquette High School’s Head Coach!Michael has a rich history with the game, having studied at Missouri State University and worked as an Undergraduate Assistant for their football program. This year marks his first as the Head Coach at Marquette after a successful stint as the team’s Defensive Coordinator.Whether you’re a high school sports fan or just love a good underdog story, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore his journey and vision for the team. Listen now!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailExciting news, folks! Meet Hannah Farrell, the new President of the National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter and great-granddaughter of the legendary Tom Lombardo! 🏈 Join us as we chat about the Lombardo family legacy, their passion for St. Louis sports and toasted ravioli. We’ll explore how they’re dedicated to nurturing young athletes and supporting the next generation.But that’s not all! Learn about the amazing scholarships given each year to local high school football players who excel in academics, personal growth, and athletic performance. These awards recognize their hard work both on and off the field. To find out more about The National Football Foundation St. Louis Tom Lombardo Chapter visit https://stlfootballfoundation.com/Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailSupport the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it's like to be part of a legendary college football team? Join us in our latest podcast episode with Pat Sarb, who played for Notre Dame under the iconic Ara Parseghian. In this two part episode Relive the excitement of the 1973 National Championship, facing off against future NFL stars, and learn the story behind Rudy's inspiring journey onto the team! 🏆🏈We will share Part 2 next Friday February 6th.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan Mail A big thank you to our listeners from "STL in the Huddle!"  Our hosts reflect on a fantastic year! Ever wondered how Ken, Tom, and Sherry got together? Catch this episode of STL in the Huddle as they share their origin story and careers outside the show. The crew teases potential guests in 2026, like those from the National Football Foundation and a special guest with real life insights  on the  movie "Rudy", updates on scholarships and the upcoming UFL draft. Catch it all and more on our latest episode! To find out more about The National Football Foundation St. Louis Tom Lombardo Chapter visit https://stlfootballfoundation.com/Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailHappy 2026! Our latest episode of StL in the Huddle is, featuring a conversation with the seasoned Offensive Line Coach, Jeff Auten, from Marquette High School. We'll dive into the past high school season, college bowl games and discuss the impact of Missouri losing another NFL team. Plus, we're looking ahead to the Battle Hawks along with some bold AI predictions for the next 50 years of pro games. Don't miss out on all the action! 🏈📻Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailCatch *STL in the Huddle* with Mike Gohn, a Jackson, Missouri native who excelled in high school sports and earned All-American honors at Southeast Missouri State. Mike’s career spans coaching at Pattonville and Illinois, leading athletics at Parkway North, and serving as Parkway’s Athletics Director. Inducted into Southeast Missouri State's Hall of Fame, he is a board member and  chairs The National Football Foundation - St. Louis Chapter's Scholarship Selection Committee. The Chapter's Annual Scholar-Athlete Awards Banquet will take place in the spring and recognizes scholar-athletes, outstanding coaches, officials, and community leaders who have contributed to the game of football.  Visit  stlfootballfoundation.com today to nominate your favorite high school  senior football player.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailOn today’s episode of *STL in the Huddle*, we’re joined by Tyler Fulghum, a familiar face from ESPN and a passionate sports analyst. Tyler brings his unique insights into the world of football, sharing his take on the latest headlines, strategies, and what fans can expect in the weeks ahead.  In a fun twist, host Tom and Tyler reminisce about their connection from years back when Tom coached Tyler at Lafayette High School. They’ll reflect on how those experiences shaped his perspective, both on and off the field.  Plus, Tyler opens up about an exciting new chapter in his life—preparing to become a father! Don’t miss this blend of football talk, personal stories, and plenty of laughs.  Tune in for a great conversation you won’t want to miss!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailGet ready for an inspiring conversation on STL in the Huddle as we welcome St. Louis County Chief of Police, Colonel Kenneth Gregory! In this episode, Colonel Gregory reflects on how his time on the football field shaped him into the leader he is today and the story behind his long awaited trophy win. He’ll also share the vital role The Backstoppers organization plays in supporting families of first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice or suffered catastrophic injuries. Plus, hear his invitation to join the community for the annual Guns and Hoses event on Thanksgiving Eve, an incredible night of camaraderie and support for a great cause. Don’t miss this one!For more information about The Backstoppers Inc. please visit...https://backstoppers.org/For ticket info for Budweiser Guns & Hoses visit...https://stlgunsnhoses.com/Keep in mind you can also catch the event on FOX2 Thanksgiving Eve.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of *STL in the Huddle*, we sit down with Jennifer Stanfill, Operations Coordinator for Missouri KIDS, to explore the organization’s incredible mission of supporting young athletes across Missouri who have experienced life-changing injuries. Jennifer shares how her role in overseeing daily operations and collaborating with the Board of Directors helps Missouri KIDS provide essential resources like adaptive equipment, accessible transportation, home modifications, and educational assistance.  With her background in educational administration and a deep passion for helping families overcome challenges, Jennifer sheds light on how Missouri KIDS goes beyond financial aid, offering lifelong support to empower children to pursue their goals and regain independence.  Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about how Missouri KIDS is transforming lives, one student-athlete at a time. Visit MissouriKids.org to learn more about their impactful work and how you can contribute to their mission!Website: missourikids.orgEmail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/MissouriKIDS.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missourikids/And here is the link to the upcoming Bougie Bingo event --  early bird pricing until November 30! Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of *STL in the Huddle*, we’re joined by Josh Frisbee, a Riddell sales representative, to tackle some of the most important topics in football today. From the latest advancements in helmet safety and the process of reconditioning to proper cleaning techniques and groundbreaking innovations in equipment, Josh shares expert insights every football enthusiast will appreciate. Plus, we take a nostalgic trip through the history of football helmets, reflecting on how far they’ve come. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan of the game, this conversation is packed with valuable information and stories you won’t want to miss.Visit Riddell for more information on  safety and smarter football. Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailThis week on "STL in the Huddle," we're joined by legendary St. Louis sports writer Jim Thomas, who shares fascinating stories from his career covering some of the city’s most iconic moments. From chronicling the 1999 Rams’ Super Bowl win to the St. Louis Blues' unforgettable 2019 Stanley Cup victory, Jim gives us a unique look at the teams and fans that define the city’s sports culture. We also dive into his new book, “The Franchise: St. Louis Blues: A Curated History of the Blues,” explore his thoughts on Mizzou, the Rams’ move to St. Louis, and the ever-evolving role of modern journalists. Plus, hear his reflections on St. Louis' passionate sports community and how he brings that energy to his role with The National Football Foundation. Don’t miss this insider look at the world of St. Louis sports!Follow Jim on X to find out where he will be next on his book tour... https://x.com/jthom1To purchase a copy of  “The Franchise: St. Louis Blues: A Curated History of the Blues,”Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailThis week on *STL In The Huddle*, we sit down with Frank Viverito, Chief Advisory Officer of the St. Louis Sports Commission, to talk about his incredible journey in the world of sports and his contributions to the St. Louis sports community. From hosting iconic events like the NCAA Final Fours, U.S. Olympic Trials, and PGA Championship to shaping St. Louis as a top sports destination, Frank shares stories and insights from his decades-long career. We’ll also explore his role in creating the nationally recognized Musial Awards, celebrating sportsmanship and character in athletics. Whether you’re a football enthusiast or just passionate about how sports impact a city, this episode is packed with inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories. Don’t miss it!To learn more about the St. Louis Sports Commission and The Musial Awards visit www.stlsports.orgSupport the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of "STL in the Huddle", we sit down with "National Football Foundation/College Hall of Fame, Campbell Trophy Finalist", Nick D'Ambrose.  He is currently a medical student at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine with a passion for orthopedic surgery, spine surgery, sports medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Nicholas shares his journey from earning a degree in Neuroscience at the University of Chicago to balancing life as a former unanimous All-American athlete and 3x football team captain. With 12 school records to his name and recognition as an Academic Heisman Trophy Finalist, Nicholas provides unique insight into the drive and discipline that have shaped his path. We also explore his transition from competitive video gaming to pursuing a career in surgery, where precision and focus remain at the forefront of his pursuits. Football enthusiasts won’t want to miss this conversation with an athlete-turned-medical professional who continues to push boundaries in both sports and medicine.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailGet ready for an exciting episode of *STL in the Huddle* as we welcome Harold Graeter, the Associate Executive Director of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. Harold shares his wealth of knowledge about the historic Liberty Bowl, one of college football’s most iconic postseason games. Discover the fascinating backstory of this long-standing tradition and its impact on the sport.But that’s not all—Harold paints a vivid picture of Memphis, Tennessee, home to the Liberty Bowl. From the city’s rich culture and vibrant music scene on Beale Street to its world-famous barbeque, this episode dives into everything that makes Memphis a must-visit destination. We also discuss the incredible work being done at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and how the Liberty Bowl supports this vital cause.Whether you’re a football fan, a Memphis enthusiast, or someone passionate about giving back, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in and join the huddle!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailJoin us for this special episode of *STL in the Huddle* as we sit down with Bob Bunton, the legendary former Parkway North head football coach and a member of the St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame. Bob shares his invaluable insights from decades of coaching and mentoring young athletes, including his thoughts on how parents can best support their children in football and the lessons learned both on and off the field.  We’ll also dive into the important work of the National Football Foundation, exploring why the St. Louis chapter carries the name Tom Lombardo. Bob offers his perspective on the foundation’s role in fostering football’s future while honoring its past.Listeners will hear stories about Bob’s impact on student-athletes, from coaching future Division I stars like Donavin Newsom and Jalani Williams to creating a team culture built on care, resilience, and personal growth. Learn why Bob believes the game is about so much more than wins and losses.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a coach who has shaped countless lives through the sport of football. Whether you're a parent, player, or fan, there's something here for everyone!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailGet ready for another  exciting episode of *STL in the Huddle* as we welcome legendary coach Larry Kindbom to the show. With an impressive career spanning decades, Coach Kindbom shares stories from his time as head football coach at  Washington University in St. Louis. We'll dive into his retirement in 2019, his return to the sidelines, his decision to step away again in 2023 and the youngsters he is coaching now.Coach Kindbom reflects on the lessons he's learned over the years, the impact of mentoring young athletes, and the values that have guided his coaching philosophy. We'll also discuss his thoughts on leadership, team-building, and his latest venture—his new book. Whether you're a sports fan, a coach, or just someone who enjoys inspiring stories, this conversation is not to be missed.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailThis week, we’re thrilled to welcome broadcasting legend Mike Claiborne to the podcast. With a career spanning over 40 years in sports media, Mike has seen it all—from covering seven St. Louis Cardinals World Series to working alongside icons like Jack Buck and Mike Shannon. Starting from his college days at Fisk University, where he found his passion for broadcasting at the campus radio station, to becoming a trusted voice in St. Louis sports, Mike’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance and adaptability.  We’ll dive into how he got his start, the connections and friendships that shaped his career, and his take on whether breaking into the industry has gotten easier or harder over the years. Plus, Mike reflects on his time in college, including his fraternity life and the moments that set him on this remarkable path.  Join us for an engaging conversation with one of the Midwest’s most respected broadcasters as we explore the career, insights, and stories of a Missouri Sports Hall of Fame inductee who truly made his mark on the world of sports media.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailGet ready to dive into the incredible story of Walter Ted Carter Jr., the 17th president of The Ohio State University. A 1981 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Carter’s career began in the cockpit as a Naval Flight Officer, where he set the all-time record for carrier-arrested landings with an astounding 2,016 safe touchdowns. Over his 38 years of service, he flew 125 combat missions and earned high honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross for valor. His leadership shined in academia as well, serving as the 54th Superintendent of the Naval War College and later as the 62nd Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, making significant contributions to both institutions.After retiring from the Navy as a Vice Admiral, Carter transitioned to higher education, taking on the role of the 8th President of the University of Nebraska. There, he spearheaded initiatives like the Nebraska Promise, ensuring access to education for low- and middle-income families, and oversaw record-setting enrollment growth, particularly among underrepresented students. Today, as the president of The Ohio State University, Carter leads one of the nation’s premier research universities, located in the heart of Columbus, Ohio—a city buzzing with innovation, sports pride, and opportunity.This episode explores Carter’s storied journey, from his decorated military career to his transformative work in higher education. We’ll also touch on topics that matter to students, parents, and football enthusiasts alike: the balance of academics and athletics, how AI is shaping the classroom, navigating post-college careers, and why Columbus is such a vibrant hub for students and professionals. Whether you're interested in leadership, sports, or finding inspiration for the next chapter of your own story, this conversation has something for everyone.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailGet ready for an insightful episode of *St. Louis in the Huddle* as we welcome Chris Rubio, the nation’s top long snapping instructor and the founder of Rubio Long Snapping! With nearly two decades of experience, Rubio has revolutionized the art of long snapping, helping countless athletes earn scholarships and spots on major college football teams.  In this episode, Chris shares his expertise on how the long snapping position has evolved to become safer on the field and offers valuable advice on the ideal age for young athletes to start training. We also dive into why educators often make the best coaches, bringing unique teaching skills to the game. Whether you're a player, coach, or passionate football fan, you won't want to miss this engaging conversation with the man who has shaped the future of long snapping!To find out more about Rubio visit https://www.rubiolongsnapping.com/The Rubio Method https://therubiomethod.com/Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailThis week on *St. Louis in the Huddle*, Tom, Ken, and Sherry sit down with Amanda Ploeger, co-host of the popular *Pro Football Alliance (A-Team with RC)* podcast. Get ready for an engaging conversation as Amanda shares when her passion for football first sparked and gives her take on the future of professional football in St. Louis. From discussing the impact of women in the game to a fun chat about gift boxes for loyal Battlehawks fans, this episode is packed with insights and enthusiasm for the sport we all love. Don’t miss out!Follow the Pro Football Alliance (A-Team with RC) on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/share/1LWa1bBbuv/?mibextid=wwXIfrFor more information about the National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter visit www.STLFootballFoundation.comSupport the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailJoin us for an exciting episode of *St. Louis In The Huddle*, the official podcast of the National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter. Since its founding in 1992 by a group of dedicated coaches and NFL legends, this organization has been committed to fostering leadership and growth in young athletes across the St. Louis community.This week, Ken, Tom, and Sherry welcome special guest Mike Hebert, a local high school football official and a member of the officiating team honored with the prestigious 2025 MFCA Hantak/Larrew Award. Together, they’ll dive into the vital role officials play in shaping the game, from their detailed preparations before each matchup to some of the toughest calls they’ve faced on the field. They’ll also discuss the increasing demand for young officials and why the next generation is crucial to the future of football.Whether you’re a passionate football fan or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes efforts that make every game possible, this episode offers unique insights, engaging stories, and a look at the teamwork that keeps the sport thriving. Don’t miss it!Visit STLFootballFoundation.com for more info about the organization.Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of *St. Louis In The Huddle*, we dive into the origins of the National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter, originally founded in 1992 by a group of dedicated coaches and NFL legends. Learn how their vision and commitment to supporting young athletes laid the foundation for this impactful organization.We’ll also discuss the prestigious scholarships awarded annually to local high school football players who shine in academics, personal growth, and athletic performance. These scholarships not only celebrate their achievements on the field but also recognize their dedication to excellence off the field.Get an inside look at the organization’s all-volunteer team, whose passion for the sport and education drives every initiative. Plus, we’ll introduce Chapter President Ken Leach and board member Tom Swoboda, two key figures leading the way in continuing the chapter’s mission.Whether you're a lifelong football fan or simply curious about how the game inspires leadership and community, this episode is packed with stories and updates you won’t want to miss. Tune in now!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan Mail**Episode Description:** In this episode of *In The Huddle*, Tom, Ken, and Sherry sit down with St. Louis Battlehawks player Freedom Akinmoladun. They dive into his football career, chat about his passion for video games, and hear why he’s not a fan of shoveling snow. Get to know Freedom beyond the field as the team explores his life, interests, and experiences. Don’t miss this fun and engaging conversation!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to *In the Huddle*, the official podcast of the National Football Foundation St. Louis Chapter, where we celebrate the game, explore its impact, and connect with the people who make it all happen. Each week, we bring you insightful conversations with players, coaches, and football leaders who share their stories, experiences, and perspectives on the sport we all love.This week, we're joined by a very special guest, Dave Boller, the General Manager of the St. Louis BattleHawks. With the season underway and the team off to a strong start, Dave will share his thoughts on what’s driving their early success. We’ll cover a range of topics, including how he approaches scouting and recruiting talent, the bonds and camaraderie that define the football brotherhood, and some personal anecdotes, like what it’s like to board a shaky plane after a tough loss. Dave will also share insights into managing budgets, the importance of being resourceful, and the bright future he envisions for the BattleHawks, including the possibility of a permanent move to St. Louis.Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with stories and insights straight from the heart of the game!Support the show"STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.