Brand Academy: More Than The Game Podcast Episode 3

Disrupt U PSU Presents More Than The Game With Caroline Jurevicius and in this episode host Caroline Jurevicius interviews Nolan Rucci, a five-star recruit and Penn State football player. They discuss Nolan's upbringing in a sports-oriented family, his journey through football, the challenges of transitioning to college athletics, and the importance of community involvement. Nolan shares insights on the mental and physical demands of being a student-athlete, the significance of family support, and the lessons learned through sports.

Takeaways:

•Nolan's family background heavily influenced his football journey.

•Growing up in a sports family provided invaluable support and guidance.

•Football was introduced to Nolan at a young age through family involvement.

•Experiences in youth sports shaped Nolan's work ethic and teamwork skills.

•The transition to college football was a humbling experience for Nolan.

•Mental health challenges are common during intense training periods.

•Nolan values the importance of community outreach and giving back.

•Nolan's decision to return to Penn State was influenced by family ties and coaching quality.

•Finding a passion in sports can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. 

About the Brand Academy

The Penn State Brand Academy was created from the Wally Triplett Brand Academy Endowment, in partnership with the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization (Invent Penn State) and Intercollegiate Athletics. The Brand Academy is a comprehensive Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program designed to provide Penn State student-athletes with the knowledge and skills necessary to maximize their personal brands. The Brand Academy is committed to creating a culture that encourages, nurtures, and rewards entrepreneurship in Penn State student-athletes while ensuring they have the necessary resources and skills to create, innovate, and dominate the collegiate NIL space and beyond.

The Brand Academy offers student-athlete’s educational programs and support focused on:

• Personal brand building, now and for the future

• Entrepreneurship and commercialization

• Managing and monetizing endorsement opportunities through facilitation with local businesses and alumni.