Alliance for Catholic Education
New book shares sacred stories from the sidelines of the Fighting Irish
NOTRE DAME, IN — Pray Like a Champion Today, a new book by University of Notre Dame football chaplain and Ryan Family Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) professor Fr. Nate Wills, C.S.C., offers a unique and inspiring window into the intersection of faith, formation, and football at one of America’s most iconic universities.
Every game day, as the Fighting Irish kneel shoulder to shoulder to pray the “Our Father,” Fr. Nate leads them in a rallying cry: “Our Lady, Queen of Victory!” The thunderous response—“Pray for us!”—echoes through Notre Dame Stadium, setting the tone for more than just the game.
Fr. Nate invites readers beyond the sidelines for an exclusive look at the faith-filled moments that make Notre Dame football truly special. With vivid storytelling, full-color photography, and links to highlight videos, Pray Like a Champion Today shares behind-the-scenes experiences that have deepened Fr. Nate’s faith—and offers spiritual insight for readers seeking to grow in their own faith.
As both a chaplain and a professor, Fr. Nate supports players, coaches, and staff in their personal and spiritual journeys. Whether handing out holy medals, praying with injured athletes, or officiating weddings for former players, he models what it means to be a true champion of faith.
The book provides readers with the opportunity to:
- Walk alongside players into Notre Dame Stadium, where roaring crowds and the band create a spirit-charged atmosphere.
- Go behind the scenes of practices and team meetings, where the Irish embrace mottos like “Choose Hard” and “Team Glory.”
- Discover how faith infuses the program, from game-day rituals to moments of personal reflection and growth.
For die-hard Irish fans and casual football followers alike, this book is more than a sports story—it’s an invitation to see how God moves in unexpected places.
BOOK PURCHASE DETAILS
Title: Pray Like a Champion Today: Sacred Stories from the Sidelines of Notre Dame
Author: Fr. Nate Wills, C.S.C.
ISBN: 978-1-64680-425-2
Format: Paperback, 160 pages
Price: $18.42
Publisher: Ave Maria Press
Available for Purchase at: Amazon.com and avemariapress.com
Use Promo Code: ACE25 to receive 25% off Pray Like a Champion Today when ordering at avemariapress.com. Offer expires 12/31/25
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fr. Nate Wills, C.S.C., is the chaplain of the University of Notre Dame football team and a Ryan Family Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) professor. He teaches in the Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program and serves as founding director of Higher-Powered Learning, an initiative helping K–12 Catholic educators use technology to meet the needs of all learners.
Fr. Nate holds master’s degrees in theology and education from Notre Dame and earned his doctorate in education leadership and policy from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Ordained in 2006, he served as associate pastor of St. Joseph Parish in South Bend and now speaks nationally on topics such as Catholic education, AI, blended learning, and leadership.
ABOUT THE ALLIANCE FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATION (ACE)
Founded in 1993, the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE), part of the Institute for Educational Initiatives (IEI) at the University of Notre Dame, works to sustain, strengthen, and transform Catholic schools. ACE forms teachers and leaders; develops and disseminates innovative tools and research to integrate academic excellence and spiritual growth; and enhances financial accessibility and operational vitality to ensure that all children—especially those in historically marginalized communities—have the opportunity to experience the gift of an excellent Catholic education. ACE annually serves more than 300 schools and 250,000 students in over 40 states.
To learn more, visit https://ace.nd.edu
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES (IEI)
Founded in 1996, the Institute for Educational Initiatives (IEI) at the University of Notre Dame consists of more than two dozen programs that strive to improve education for all youth, particularly the disadvantaged, while paying special—though not exclusive—attention to Catholic schools. IEI fosters interdisciplinary research, professional formation, and community partnerships to support the belief that education is a human right and a powerful force for human dignity and flourishing.
To learn more, visit https://iei.nd.edu
MEDIA CONTACT
Erin Pierce
Publicist & Strategic Partnerships Manager
Ave Maria Press
epierce@nd.edu | 800.282.1865 x223