TESTIMONIALS
"I first met coach Dan Duddy when I was 10 or 11 years old at the shores best camp in which he organized and ran. Reflecting back on my football career I vividly remember this camp and just remember competing as a young kid and remembering the impression I first got from Coach Duddy. He was a leader. Even at a young age I was able to recognize who was a leader and a man and who was there because they had to be. Coach Duddy made such an impression on me during that camp, which ultimately led me to decide to go play football for him at Monsignor Donovan. He may or may not realize or know this, but he taught me more about being a man and being a leader and what it takes to succeed and to stand out more so than X's and O's. But which ultimately led me in what I believe to be, a successful football career. I learned in college very early that talent alone was not going to carry me to where I wanted to be. I realized very quickly I was not going to walk in and start right away and I was not going to demand touches and playing time because I was just there. I had go back to my roots and I had to reflect on how I got here and what I learned from Coach Duddy in high school. To work, to compete, and to have grit. Coach Duddy instilled that in me and in his players in High school. I believe to this day that playing football under coach Dan Duddy and attending Monsignor Donovan was one of the best decisions in my life, and of which helped me immensely in gearing me for college football. I think HS coaches now focus too much on the schemes, the flash, it’s all about “me” mentality. But when it comes down to it, it's all about playing for one another, developing a bond with your teammates and coaches and having that grit factor. High school football I believe has lost touch with this and is now focused on things that will not carry with you after football and will not make you a better man. Coach Duddy from the moment I stepped foot on that HS campus, very obviously focused on leadership, developing young men, and mental toughness. Things that will help you for the rest of your life. "
- Vincent Grasso, ex-Monmouth University standout football player and current Monmouth Asst. Coach
"As a VP of Sales for a Fortune 300 organization, I am always searching for ways to motivate my people and bring external value to my associates and leadership team. Over the years, I have been fortunate to be in the same room and hear from some incredible people such as Stan McChrystal and Jay Shetty as they address a salesforce or give a keynote presentation. Although these are incredible leaders, there is none that stand-out like Dan Duddy in my own leadership tenure. Dan has an ability to capture an audience, tell a story, and move people into long-lasting action. He was able to balance work and our organization’s initiatives along with the personal touch of life and the result was profound both personally and professionally. Dan’s messages became the heartbeat of our culture for the next 6 months as we closed out an incredible year and had record breaking sales revenue just shy of $10 million dollars. I continue to use and leverage Dan’s messaging in my leadership career and would welcome him with open arms any chance I could get him in front of my group. If you are currently running a team of your own, I highly recommend working with Dan."
- Bill Winters, Vice President of Sales
Automatic Data Processing, ADP
"Dan Duddy is a man’s man, from a Catholic point of view. Amid the chaos and ambiguity of today’s culture, Dan is a rock to his family, his friends, his former student-athletes and to his Church. Dan knows his mission in life: to partner with his wife to reach heaven with his children and all those he can influence. Dan led a Fathers & Sons Breakfast at my parish several years ago. He spoke from his experience as a father and football coach, an “apostle of the dirt.” My son and grandsons could relate to that and made a commitment that morning to follow the Lord. Dan’s message he repeats on his weekly Saturday radio program, reaching a wider audience and urging them to follow the Way of Jesus. Life is challenging and it’s helpful, a grace actually, to hear a voice and mentor like Dan Duddy."
- Pete Eschmann, retired, Charter President
of Barnegat Optimist Club
"Mr. Dan Duddy repeatedly inspires and transforms our Central Regional high school mentor program with his speaking and mentoring. A passionate and charismatic speaker, he never fails to captivate our students, even those that are hardest to reach. His workshops and lectures inspire, educate, and motivate both my students and faculty, and truly anyone in earshot of him!
I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Duddy to anyone interested in taking their program to new heights."
- Adrienne Cangelosi, High School Assistant Principal and Mentoring Program Coordinator
"I’ve had the privilege of hearing Dan Duddy speak on more than one occasion, and I can say he definitely commands the full attention of his audience. When he spoke on Professional Day at Brick Memorial High School, you could literally hear a pin drop in the packed auditorium. I would describe his talks as inspirational life stories delivered with wisdom, humor and gut-wrenching honesty. He takes his audience on a spiritual roller coaster ride of emotions, from amusement and joy to fear and sadness. When you are spit out onto the straightaway and the ride comes to an end, you take a deep breath, sit still for a moment and contemplate what really matters in our complicated lives. And you thank God for the many blessings that surround us."
- Laura D. (Faculty member in audience of
district wide school year kickoff)
"Dan is a remarkable person who has dedicated his life to helping others to be the best person they can be. I have attended many of Dan’s speaking engagements. I have seen his audience laugh until their sides hurt, leave with a genuine appreciation of his message, and be moved to the point of tears. Dan never disappoints. Dan manages to weave humor, pathos, and inspiration into his moving talks. I have seen him in large venues where his gifts make each individual feel that he is talking just to them. He manages to reach his audience viscerally. There is always an appreciative buzz emanating from the audience at the conclusion of his talks. While his gifts as a speaker are well known, it is his passion that sets him apart from others. He motivates others, prompts personal reflection, offers the gift of laughter, and elevates through his message."
- Kevin Campbell, Middle School Principal
"Fifteen years ago I first heard about Dan Duddy, or rather, 'Coach' Duddy, from my son, Kevin, then a freshman on Dan's football team. As the season unfolded, I heard from Kevin about Dan's great locker room speeches (the content of which remain sacrosanct to this day), and witnessed a much more purposeful and determined demeanor in my son. Dan emphasized moral excellence, as that virtue would benefit every area of one's life. The inspirational mentoring and coaching that Kevin received from Dan helped form him into the man he has become, one who has explored nearly 80 countries and worked in several, across four continents. Since Kevin's high school years I have had the good fortune to experience several of Dan's inspirational and task-oriented presentations--given to a wide variety of audiences--and know of more than a few lives that came away transformed for the better--including mine. If you have the opportunity to experience Dan's inspirational message, then take it; if you don't, then make it!"
- Tom Caffrey, Author of "A Boy For All
Seasons, But A Man...?"
"Over the past few I have had the opportunity of working with Dan Duddy on a number of projects that lead men to Jesus Christ. He is a master of using his life experiences particularly as a champion quarterback and high school coach to build character traits in his audience. He definitely makes an impact on people and a man you want on your team."
- Fred Kutner
"In a world that is sorely lacking direction, I have found a beacon of light and sanity shining through. That light is Dan Duddy. A man of vast experience as a coach, mentor, and counselor leading and developing the characters of men, both young and old who he has come in contact with. I count myself fortunate to be one of those men. He leads by example and teaches from experience. The example he sets for those he comes in contact with is one of integrity and faith, walking the walk not just talking the talk. He knows through experience the pain of loss, which often crushes and reduces…but in Dan’s case strengthened and fortified his faith and purpose in life. He speaks from the heart, with passion. His ability to connect with and impart wisdom in a down to earth, easy to understand manner to his audiences is amazing. I have witnessed audiences riveted by his humor, his common sense, and willingness to reveal painful and personal stories. He challenges and encourages at the same time. I have witnessed, often in person his presentations to groups ranging from high school classes to mature guys like myself. As a person who spent twenty five years in special operations and intelligence services, often in combat and in dangerous settings I am not easily impressed by many people. Dan is one of the few who have."
- Jim Mulvihill
"Dan’s words really hit home and made a personal impact on me. It is always great to hear a different perspective from someone who has endured and seen so much. Dan speaks from a platform and style that is off the beaten path. I learned that the opponent is always your teacher, your ego is your enemy, and to “be where your feet are”, that is to live in the moment with your potential client. He also stressed that you must build a launch pad, and it needs to be founded upon genuine service and pride in where you come from, all while building a legacy of enhancing the lives of those around you. What also inspired me was when he said, “There is a reason that the sun goes down, it happens so you can assess whether or not you have made yourself exhausted”, and "the sun rises so you can apply the most important rule of all, 'go kick some butt.'”
- Matt Betz, Sales Executive (ADP)
"Raw, authentic and extremely moving presentation that captures the human spirit. A must see for all high school students.
"Dan, thank you for speaking with our high school seniors today. You have turned something so painful in your life to a ray of light for so many young people. I surveyed the student's facial expressions as you spoke and I saw signs of hope, forgiveness and empathy in all their faces."
-D. Aulisi, Student Assistance Coordinator,
Toms River High School East
"Dan, once again you have come and left leaving an indelible impact on our staff and students. We realize revisiting this event in your life must be terribly draining and difficult, yet in the interest of education and care for fellow human beings, you persevere. We appreciate it.
Many staff have relayed feedback that they witnessed visible emotion as the students left the presentation. It is not only due to the content of your story, but your talent in telling it."
- Susan Lamela, Student Assistance Coordinator, Barnegat High School
"I feel very fortunate to have had Mr. Dan Duddy speak to our student body. As the drug and alcohol counselor at Toms River North HS for over three decades, I would say that Dan was the most impactful speaker we ever had at one of our assemblies.
I knew what the presentation was about, but Dan's message goes beyond a mere 'Don't drink and drive!' He goes into reaching goals, removing obstacles and overcoming suicide and depression. His many years of coaching makes him a very effective motivator.
It is a very powerful, emotional and important presentation."
- James Patten SAC Toms River HS North
"Those that know Dan Duddy realize and appreciate his commitment, passion, and character as a teacher, coach, father, husband, and mentor.
As a high school Principal, I was fortunate to have Dan visit my school and address our students and staff in assembly presentations. His message of compassion, forgiveness, and appreciation resonated with our audience and it is something I will never forget.
Speaking from his heart, Dan’s insightful perspective sends a clear message of optimism, hope, and positivity. After hearing the story of Dan’s journey and his passion for the gift of life, listeners will walk away feeling inspired by his gratitude and empowered by his genuine enthusiasm."
- Vin DalliCardillo, Principal, Shore Regional High School
"Dan has been at the top of my list for impactful school speakers for as long as I have been a Student Assistance Counselor. We have often brought him in to speak to our students and parents on issues of character, family, responsibility, impaired driving, and surviving and growing from personal tragedy, to name a few topics he touched on powerfully. I believe he reaches those he speaks to on a deeper level than your average speaker, and consequently has a more lasting impact. Additionally, Dan has always shown a willingness to open himself to those who hear him speak and inevitably feel the need to connect with him. He has a big open heart with a lot to offer the communities he touches. I would highly recommend him as a pre-prom speaker, or for his assistance in any other character-building or mentoring initiative."
- David Rivera, MA, SAC, LAC, Manchester Township High School, Student Assistance Coordinator
"Dan Duddy is a very unique and passionate man of faith and principle whose life is dedicated to walking with all who seek to discover God’s personal plan for their lives; that all in and beyond the community of faith may walk closer to each other and the Lord.
Dan’s words, passion and compassion, voice and dedication speak volumes about his life’s commitment to help all those he encounters to learn and live Catholic Christian vision and values of Life!
Dan’s presentations are moving, compelling and life-changing. Come and see for yourselves! You’ll be the better for it."
- Monsignor Michael T. Mannion, STL, MA, Author, Lecturer, Police Chaplain, Camden, NJ
"Dan Duddy is the epitome of what a coach should be. He motivates, inspires and challenges those in his charge to be better. Dan has the great ability to to take his coaching gifts and bring them to his speaking audiences.
Whether it is a school, retreat or conference, Dan delivers on game day. I have watched with great admiration his ability to bring the “locker room,” as he calls it, to those he is tasked with sharing his witness. As with any great coach and speaker, Dan shares his many experiences with sports, people, and his faith to the enjoyment and encouragement of all in his hearing.
I highly recommend Dan for your next speaker series, guest lecturer, retreat or conference keynote address."
- Mark Houck, Founder of The King’s Men, Inc.
"I first saw Dan Duddy while attending a men’s rally some year’s ago. After our two circles connected, I quickly learned of his very ardent desire to shape and mentor Catholic young men. His passionate presentation keeps you on the edge of your seat as a powerful and authentic witness! His patriarchal viewpoints are very much relatable to me as a father of two sons. Whenever I invite my oldest son to men’s retreats he always asks, “Will Mr. Duddy be there?” This is followed up by a very enthusiastic, “I’m there!” As a lacrosse player and Catholic teen, he admires Mr. Duddy’s qualities and looks up to him as a role model. When it comes to teaching men from the trenches of real-life fatherhood and the Catholic Faith, Dan Duddy is at the forefront! "
- Dan Donlon, Director of Communications St. Mary’s Barnegat, That Man Is You! Core Team Leader,
Retired Police Officer
"Dan Duddy was my high school football coach and made a major impact on me at an early age. To this day I still remember his teachings both on and off the field which helped me evolve into an accountable young man through college, in the professional world, and ultimately into starting and growing my own small business. He instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic, showing resiliency in the face of fear and doubt, and always following through on my word no matter what. I attribute much of what I teach my own students to what I learned from Coach Duddy.
One thing I’ll always remember is that every day jogging out to practice Coach Duddy would yell ‘Let’s go to Work, Let’s get Better!’ It makes total sense… no matter what you’re involved in - coaching, sales, marketing, leadership, etc; strive to be better today than you were yesterday. Without hesitation I’d recommend Coach Dan Duddy as his actions and words still inspire me to this day to live with passion and positively impact others around me."
- Brent Grablachoff, Owner & Head Coach of Kicking World
"I have gotten to know Dan on a few different levels, including as a coach, friend, but most importantly, as a mentor.
I first met him when I joined his football team in high school. I was immediately captivated by the charismatic leadership that he brought to the program and the principles and virtues he instilled in all of his players. His style of mentorship puts emphasis on self-discovery, personal responsibility, and commitment. Many of the core values I developed under his mentorship as a teenager are still prevalent in my life today.
I feel blessed that our paths crossed and fortunate to be one of the many people that he has had a lasting impact on."
- Angelo Disalvo, Ex-player, Co-Founder of Young Men's Group, “The Sword and Thunder”
"Dan,
Thank you very much for “Shining” your light here to us today.
You are an inspiring and encouraging speaker and we are grateful to you. May God continue to bless you in your very important ministry."
- Irene Kutner and The Saint Mary’s Mom’s Group
"Thank you so much for your heartfelt words. I truly believe our students were impacted by your presentation and will hopefully carry the message of generosity and community throughout their lives."
- Kathleen Dillon, Monroe Twp. HS, Coordinator of Health and Physical Education
“As a motivational speaker, Coach Duddy captivates his audience through personal stories and experiences. His extensive background in various positions throughout his years in education and coaching, provides his ability to connect with students on all levels.
Our entire school, as well as our staff, were attentive
and engaged throughout his presentation.”
- Debra Serafin, Principal of
Mater Dei Prep High School
"Dan Duddy spoke at my MOM’s Group meeting several years ago. His witness embodies profound forgiveness. His compelling storytelling kept my friends and me at the edge of our seats with our eyes wide and our hearts open. There were tears. Dan’s talk impacted my friends in the MOM’s Group so much that we asked Dan to speak again in the evening for those who could not attend our morning meeting. During his second witness talk Dan conveyed fresh nuances that inspired each member. Dan’s life challenges me to live more fully in my Catholic faith."
- Elizabeth Hand, Audience member of
MOMS Group, St. Mary’s, Barnegat NJ
"Dan has the natural gift to share his life experiences in an approach that relates to everyone, of all ages. Dan’s presence is very engaging and warm and his presentations emphasize gratitude, forgiveness, strength and courage. Dan commands the attention of the audience with his optimism, hope and enthusiasm. Dan’s intense passion to help others is inspiring and empowering. I highly recommend Dan for your school, community or agency. You will not be disappointed!"
- Jennifer Czajkowski, MA, Student Assistance Counselor,
Anti-Bullying Specialist, Plan of Prevention Advisor
Students Against Destructive Decisions Advisor
Shore Regional High School
“'Captivating, Evoking, Emotional, Heartfelt, Honest, Spiritual' these are just a few words that come to mind when I think of Dan Duddy. Dan spoke to an audience of almost three hundred, both lay and religious, a pin could be heard if dropped. He captured the audience from the beginning with his honesty and his shared emotions.
Dan was well into his talk when the silence of the room was so noticeable; as I turned and surveyed the audience (no one was sleeping) all eyes were fixed on Dan. People were mesmerized, some with tears in their eyes, expressions of deep thought and concern. Dan has the ability to have his audience relate to words and internalize the experience into their own lives."
- Denise Marcell, President, St. Barnabas Rosary Altar Society
"Camden Catholic would like to thank Dan Duddy for visiting our campus and speaking at our school this year. Dan is a wonderful human being with a powerful message to share with students of all ages. We were happy to have him come speak with our new freshmen students as they acclimate to a new school environment. His passion for what he’s sharing provided inspiration and reassurance, which is so relevant to students today, as they navigate a very challenging world. He had our students reflecting on themselves, being a leader at school, and how to make a positive impact in the community.
Thank you, Dan. We cannot wait to have you back."
- Jennifer LaRosa, Director of Campus Ministry
Camden Catholic High School
"Dan,
Thank you so much for presenting to our staff and students yesterday. Your emotions were so raw and genuine and your message was so heartfelt that every single person in that audience could relate. I had multiple students and staff approach me after talking about it. On behalf of the administration, staff and students, THANK YOU!"
- Elyse Winkle, School Counselor, Student Assistance Coordinator, Head Field Hockey Coach
Lacey Township High School
"Candid, inspiring and moving are the words that come to mind after hearing Dan Duddy speak. His is a story of the influence we have and the roles we play in the lives of the young people that we educate, coach and raise. A powerful message of forgiveness, and the strength and resiliency required to do so; ultimately teaching the listener the true path to healing. Dan does not hold back on his audience, he shares and pulls you in with his honest and raw emotion. One feels different and leaves changed for the better after hearing Dan speak. As a Licensed Therapist and high school Student Assistance Counselor with 25 years of experience coordinating forums, events and programs for parents, young adults and educators, I can state with confidence and integrity that all will benefit from Dan's presentation."
- Lori Ann Roland, Licensed Professional Counselor,
Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor,
Student Assistance Counselor, Brick Township High School
"As a high school football player in the early 1990s, I had the great fortune of being coached by Dan Duddy. In the summer of 1994, Coach Duddy painted the words “We Will” on a piece of plywood and hung it in our locker room. Unbeknownst to him at the time, those two words would have a profound impact far reaching beyond the players that he coached. Each player tapped that sign every time they entered and exited the locker room, which became a tradition that lasted for over two decades.
The “We Will” mantra is simple, cogent and powerful. It’s phonetical, easily digestible, and easily repeatable. It represents teamwork and resolve. “We Will” perfectly summarizes Aristotle’s quote; “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts”. I was personally deeply influenced by the depths of the mantra as a high school football player, as was our team, which the year it was introduced to us, our team succeeded in becoming the runner-up in the state championship game.
Nearly 20 years later, I introduced the “We Will” mantra to a tech company that I founded and later sold for $33 million. The “We Will” mantra was introduced and fully adopted by our employees. They had created custom shirts, stickers, signs, and more with the words “We Will” written on them. As a tech company, for many of our employees, this was their first introduction to being on a “team” and working towards a common goal. For others, it was nostalgic and a reminder of their playing days with teammates.
The “We Will” concept especially when presented by Dan himself, is explosive and draws people back to the fundamentals that everyone should give to something greater than themselves, with the knowledge that by doing so with trust in each other, there is no ceiling to our potential together. Dan speaks to this in a unique, passionate and penetrating way. I encourage you to invite Dan to your business to pass on the “We Will” mantra to your team!"
- Jay Gould, Entrepreneur and Investor