Come spend an evening with Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger, motivational speaker par excellence whose personal story has inspired countless individuals worldwide.

The Xavier Society for the Blind is hosting Rudy, the famous Notre Dame player whose determination and enthusiasm was so strong they made a movie about him. His message is that no matter what your difficulties, never give up. He’s an inspiring speaker, and you can meet him and hear his talk at Manhattan's New York Athletic Club, on Friday, June 12, from 6:00p to 9:30 p.m. ET.

Photo: 'Rudy' Ruettiger on the sidelines of a Notre Dame football game circa 1975, in uniform #45. Courtesy of Rudy International

Rudy had a dream -- to go to the University of Notre Dame. And not just to go, but to play football. There were a few problems with this dream, however. He was not a brilliant student. He was not large enough physically for a football player. His parents were not rich, and he did not display any outstanding musical or artistic talents. Everyone told him he probably wasn't going to get in, much less every play football.

But Rudy was determined. He didn't get into Notre Dame, so he went to a neighboring junior college. He couldn't play football, but he got a job working at the stadium, then working on the team, and eventually he got a slot as a practice player. He was always at practice, he was always enthusiastic, he always did everything with high energy and determination and he was determined to never give up.