From the time he was a youngster in southern California, Kory Minor had a dream.

“Ever since I was six years old, I had a dream to attend and play football at Notre Dame,” said Kory. “Every Saturday morning, I would sit and watch Fighting Irish football. I would be there for hours watching them play. Every time they scored, I scored. I would run around our apartment and celebrate. The neighbors downstairs would come up every week and tell my mom, ‘Please get Kory to settle down!’”

Under the guidance of his mother, Kim, Kory showed dedication and hard work in the classroom and on the gridiron, honing his talents at Bishop Amat Memorial High School in La Puente, Calif. In his senior year, Kory was named the USA Today Defensive Player of the Year.

On a chilly January recruiting visit to Notre Dame, Kory and Kim were standing in front of Touchdown Jesus. “My mom says, ‘I can buy you a winter coat, but I can’t buy you a Notre Dame education. Take advantage of this full ride opportunity that Notre Dame is offering you.’” Kory committed that weekend.

He became a star outside linebacker for the Irish from 1995-98, recording 245 tackles (43.5 for loss), five interceptions and a then-ND record 22.5 sacks. He played four NFL seasons as a linebacker and special teams standout for the Carolina Panthers. 

“I always prided myself on being different than most athletes,” Kory says. “I wanted to learn the business side outside of football. I knew that I wanted to be an entrepreneur.” And that’s what he is today, as a motivational speaker, personal coach, and author. 

He started a training and development company for individuals and organizations, specializing in helping clients to “Get Off the Sideline and Get Into the Game” by fostering the concept of WINNING. And he’s authored the book, Make a Touchdown of Your Life: 24 Keys To Crossing The Goal Line Of Success.

Kory also serves as a Los Angeles area Trainer for the Play Like a Champion Today Educational Series. And he stays involved in football as the head coach at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. 

A family man and a big dreamer with a “glass half-full” mentality is a fair description of Kory. On his journey to reach a higher success, he remains focused on his vision along with the understanding that he will have to overcome challenges on the journey.

“I get to know everybody I come across,” says Minor. “I was always a person who cared about people and their well-being. I hope to be the one that brightens up a room with laughter and a smile.”

And he credits Notre Dame for its role in his success. “From the administration to the coaching staff, especially the student body, ND was nothing but superb to me,” he said. “I’m thankful for being there because those four years really helped me become a man. I can do what I do now because of that place.”