The Office of Military and Veteran Affairs (OMVA) proudly highlights an inspiring conversation with Notre Dame veteran and alum, Eric Goins. On the "Services School Stories" podcast with Service to School CEO Alec Emmert, Goins shared his unique journey of balancing elite academics, Division I athletics, and demanding military service.
Goins' story began at The Citadel, where he pursued a football scholarship. He eventually transitioned to an Army ROTC contract, a rare dual commitment among Citadel football players, with only "four out of 20 roughly" from his team pursuing a commission. As a kicker and punter, he played on significant stages, including beating South Carolina for a playoff spot and facing teams like Alabama and Jameis Winston's Florida State.
Despite NFL scout interest, Goins dedicated himself to Army service. After initial officer training and nearly a year in Ranger School, he felt compelled to give more, choosing the Signal Corps for an overseas assignment in Germany. This deployment, prolonged by the 2022 Ukraine invasion, made a football return seem unlikely.
A Providential Path to Notre Dame
As his time in Germany neared its end, Goins began considering his next steps, including the possibility of teaching at West Point through their professor program, which would fund his graduate education. He explored various academic interests, from military history and policy to international trade and finance, finding the interconnectedness of these fields fascinating. Notre Dame emerged as a top choice, with the distant dream of playing football still lingering in the back of his mind.
In a twist of fate Goins describes as "providential," he received his acceptance to Notre Dame's MBA program on the exact same day he learned he was not accepted into the West Point teaching program. "The decision had been made for me," he reflected, embracing this singular opportunity. His decision was also influenced by Notre Dame's strong academic and faith-based environment, which he cherishes as a place to grow spiritually.
The "Rudy" Dream Becomes Reality
From a "tent city" in Poland, Goins immediately contacted Notre Dame football coaches upon his acceptance, candidly admitting he lacked current film. This early intent later proved vital for his NCAA eligibility. A delayed Army separation also fortuitously helped his return. The dream was rekindled by a newspaper clipping about a former Marine pilot granted NCAA eligibility at UVA.
By late November, Goins was offered a spot on the Notre Dame team without a tryout, his highlight tape and honest demeanor convincing the coaches. This allowed him to participate in spring football, contributing as a positive influence. The emotional impact was profound; receiving eligibility approval felt like an "early Christmas gift," and kicking in Notre Dame's indoor facility was a moment of immense joy.
Goliath Mindset and Future Horizons
Introduced by Coach Marcus Freeman, 30-year-old Goins stood among much younger teammates. Despite the age gap, he found the transition smooth, drawing on his military experience. Though at "Goliath" Notre Dame, Goins maintained a "David" mindset, feeling he still had "a lot to prove" after a seven- or eight-season hiatus. He credits Coach Freeman's message of humility after a key loss to Northern Illinois as crucial for their championship pursuit.
Goins is still discerning his future, aiming to serve the country in a civilian capacity, possibly in financial services or government. His journey, from military service to the iconic Notre Dame football field, exemplifies adaptability and determination. As Goins advises, "You kind of have to have that belief in yourself that things are going to go the way you want them to because that's kind of is what's needed to be there in the first place."