As a walk-on football player, you have to believe in yourself despite all else. Anthony Brannan walked on to the University of Notre Dame football team under Coach Lou Holtz. Three years later he was a key contributor playing for the nationally ranked Fightin’ Irish. He tells you what it takes to have vision, sustained passion and how to carry out a dream.
Anthony Brannan brings a dynamic blend of experiences to his work—as a former college athlete, business owner, and accomplished film and television producer. A former Notre Dame football player, Anthony understands firsthand the power of faith, perseverance, and resilience in overcoming challenges. His journey has taken him from the playing field to Hollywood and back to the East Coast, where he now focuses on producing meaningful, impactful narratives.
Currently, Anthony is producing a short series with the Knights of Columbus, spotlighting the inspiring stories of Knights and their transformative impact on their communities. Through his work, he emphasizes the values of service, leadership, and unwavering faith, inspiring others to make a difference in the world regardless of their background or status.
Raised in a proud Irish Italian Catholic family in New Jersey, Anthony was a three-sport athlete and National Honor Society President at Seton Hall Prep. Turning down scholarship offers from I-AA and Ivy League schools, he followed his heart to Notre Dame, where he played five seasons for the Fighting Irish, competed in three major bowl games, and was twice named the State Farm Student-Athlete of the Week. He graduated with a double major in American Studies and Computer Applications, balancing academic excellence with athletic achievement.
Following his time at Notre Dame, Anthony transitioned into the entertainment industry, working as a producer, writer, and actor. He currently runs Designerland, a multimedia company specializing in content creation and social media marketing. His credits include projects such as Unplanned and The Dating Project, along with a variety of documentaries and films.
As a speaker, Anthony shares compelling stories from his football career, film industry experience, and personal journey of faith. He inspires audiences of all ages with messages of empowerment, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to one’s values. Whether discussing faith and football or the art of storytelling, Anthony encourages others to pursue their dreams, work hard, and create a lasting impact in their communities.
