Rory Nicol
Hold YOUR Rope
I was handed a piece of rope in 2008. I had no idea it would one day save my life. Today, that rope is the symbol of my second chance - and the reminder to Remember Our Purpose to Elevate others. My mission is simple: to pass that rope on to as many people as I can.
“Rory Nicol was an extraordinary football player, but is a better man. His passion to add value and make a difference in the lives of all he can touch is amazing. The courage to tell his story and lessons learned will make an impact on all who listen. I love Rory Nicol and am so proud of him. He is a difference maker!”
Jim Tressel | Lieutenant Govener Ohio
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As a keynote speaker, I’m always looking for voices with both a powerful message and real storytelling ability—and Rory has both. His story needs to be heard, and his servant-hearted leadership stands out in this space. Keep your eye on him—his Hold your Rope message is going to make an impact.
Damon West, Keynote Speaker & Best Selling Co-author of The Coffee Bean
“Having known Rory as a teammate, I saw how hard he worked and how deeply he cared for those around him. It’s no surprise he now uses his own adversity to lift others up. His story proves that whether we’re on the mountaintop or in the valley, we’re stronger together. I’ve faced my own trials, so believe me—Rory’s message won’t disappoint.”
Tyson gentry, Founder/President, New Perspective Foundation
"Rory is driven by a calling to help others find their best lives, shaped by his journey through mental health struggles and redemption. His voice connects deeply with young people, athletes, parents, business leaders, and community advocates. His story proves that when people show up, care for one another, and share their pain, light can overcome even the darkest places."
Elaine Bonner | Director of Philanthropy, Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative
RORY’S STORY
Rory Nicol was once a rising star - a standout tight end at Ohio State who went on to become a successful business leader. But life pulled him off course for nearly two decades.
In 2022, everything shifted. Through community, surrender, and a renewed commitment to growth, his focus is on elevating others. Rory speaks to athletes, leaders, and organizations across the country.
His 'Hold Your Rope' message is raw, real, and rooted in resilience. More than a talk, it's a movement calling people to hold on when life gets heavy and to help others do the same.
He leaves every audience with an important question: Who are you holding your rope for?
PROUD TO HAVE SERVED
highlights
speaking
Rory Nicol speaks directly into the realities teams face—moments of pressure, setbacks, and the urge to give up. Whether working with athletes or corporate teams, his message builds resilience and calls people to lift others when they’re down, reminding every audience that no one rises alone.
For Athletic Teams
Championship cultures are built when team members embrace the mindset of forgetting themselves in the service of others. Rory's message challenges athletes and coaches to take ownership of their purpose.
Teams will learn to:
- Use honesty and vulnerability to unlock higher performance.
- Hold the rope when pressure peaks and giving up feels close.
- Take ownership of their purpose to show up for their teammates - and elevate the team.
FOR LEADERS & ORGANIZATIONS
Championship cultures don't happen by accident. Exceptional organizations emerge when leaders choose to lead with purpose, resilience, and a commitment to elevating others.
Audiences learn to:
- Recognize when a team member is losing their grip.
- Build trust that strengthens culture and transforms performance.
- Elevate people at every level - creating a culture where everyone pulls the rope together.
WHAT OTHERS SAY
“Rory Nicol was an extraordinary football player, but is a better man. His passion to add value and make a difference in the lives of all he can touch is amazing. The courage to tell his story and lessons learned will make an impact on all who listen. I love Rory Nicol and am so proud of him. He is a difference maker!”
Jim Tressel | Lieutenant Govener Ohio
As a keynote speaker, I’m always looking for voices with both a powerful message and real storytelling ability—and Rory has both. His story needs to be heard, and his servant-hearted leadership stands out in this space. Keep your eye on him—his Hold your Rope message is going to make an impact.
Damon West, Keynote Speaker & Best Selling Co-author of The Coffee Bean
“Having known Rory as a teammate, I saw how hard he worked and how deeply he cared for those around him. It’s no surprise he now uses his own adversity to lift others up. His story proves that whether we’re on the mountaintop or in the valley, we’re stronger together. I’ve faced my own trials, so believe me—Rory’s message won’t disappoint.”
Tyson gentry, Founder/President, New Perspective Foundation
"Rory is driven by a calling to help others find their best lives, shaped by his journey through mental health struggles and redemption. His voice connects deeply with young people, athletes, parents, business leaders, and community advocates. His story proves that when people show up, care for one another, and share their pain, light can overcome even the darkest places."
Elaine Bonner | Director of Philanthropy, Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative
Check availability
Bring the Hold Your Rope message to your organization and build a culture of resilience and elevating others—one that holds strong under pressure and creates a winning culture.
Fill Out the Interest Form
Tell us a little about your team, event, or organization so we can learn what you’re looking for.
Rory Reaches Out
Rory (or someone from his team) will personally connect to discuss your goals, audience, and how to make the most impact.
Connect with Rory
If you’re interested in booking Rory or learning more about his Hold Your Rope message, he’d love to connect. Reach out below and our team will follow up to help you bring this impactful story to your event, team, or organization.