Rockne Premier members get an inside look at Notre Dame Athletics during Rockne Winter Sports Weekend

Last month, we welcomed members of the Rockne Athletics Fund’s Jesse Harper Council and Athletics Director’s Circle back to campus for a special weekend celebrating our winter sports, connecting with our programs and student-athletes, and hearing from Notre Dame athletics leadership. It was a privilege to share the four-day experience with more than 200 members and guests whose commitment continues to strengthen the mission of Notre Dame Athletics.

Getting an inside look

The weekend began with the Sips & Sabres Welcome Reception, where guests enjoyed an up-close look at a Fighting Irish fencing training session and heard from Head Coach Gia Kvaratskhelia about the championship culture that defines the program.

The following morning, members gathered for pastries and coffee in some of Notre Dame’s most iconic spaces: the Schivarelli Players Lounge, the Notre Dame Football Locker Room, the legendary Play Like a Champion Today sign, and the football field.

The morning continued with a conversation featuring Vice President and James E. Rohr Director of Athletics Pete Bevacqua, who shared candid insights on the evolving landscape of college athletics and how Notre Dame continues to remain distinctive while building on its long tradition of excellence.

Rockne Premier members enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the highly anticipated Jack and Kathy Shields Family Hall and an evening of camaraderie inside the Notre Dame Baseball team room. Guests enjoyed live entertainment as two Notre Dame football student-athletes took the stage for a surprise musical performance that brought the house down! With great music, strong connections, and plenty of Fighting Irish spirit, it was an unforgettable night.  

Forming lasting connections

Saturday morning featured one of the weekend’s most anticipated events: the Student-Athlete Networking Brunch. Rockne Premier members and student-athletes gathered for two hours of meaningful conversation, mentorship, and connection. The event reflects the spirit of Notre Dame and its 4 for Forever promise — supporting student-athletes not only during their time on campus, but throughout their lives beyond graduation.

The weekend’s final reception, Chlorine & Cocktails, brought attendees poolside for a one-of-a-kind celebration inside the Rolfs Aquatic Center. It was a special opportunity to showcase the athletic spaces and teams that make Notre Dame athletics so unique.

Keeping Mission at the center

The weekend concluded with a beautiful Mass in the chapel at Graham Family Hall, where attendees gathered to honor the lasting legacy of Don Casey ’82 and his profound impact on Notre Dame and Her student-athletes. It was a fitting and meaningful close to a weekend centered on community, mission, and the shared commitment that drives the success of Fighting Irish Athletics.

We are deeply grateful to our Rockne Premier members whose passion, presence, and generosity made the entire experience so special. You can find out more about Rockne, including our Jesse Harper Council and Athletics Director’s Circle memberships, on the Giving Society webpage ›