Sports Team Keynote Speaker David Tyree Inspires Wilkes University Football
On August 21, 2025, Wilkes University hosted Super Bowl XLII Champion and sports team keynote speaker, David Tyree, on their campus to address the Colonels’ football program. David Biever, Head Coach of the NCAA Division-III Football team, invited Tyree to present his signature keynote speech, Catch Your Moment, tailored for the young student-athletes of Wilkes University. The event was an inspiring opportunity to learn about Tyree’s remarkable journey in football and life. He provided the student-athletes with insights they will carry with them both on and off the football field.
Wilkes University is home to student-athletes who excel in both academics and sports, paving the way for their future success. Now in his second year as head coach, David Biever has a roster of players eager to define themselves as athletes, students, and individuals. Bringing in David Tyree as an inspirational speaker for student-athletes provided them with insight, guidance, and wisdom to enhance their football experience.
David is best known for “The Helmet Catch,” which played a pivotal role in helping the New York Giants secure a victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. But the journey leading up to that iconic moment, and the life he’s built since, have made him the perfect motivational speaker for athletes.
When engaging with the Wilkes University Football Program, Tyree highlighted three major lessons tailored for the program:
Handling pressure both on and off the field is critical for student-athletes to achieve their future goals. In high-pressure situations, Tyree emphasized the importance of rising to the occasion instead of being afraid to shine. He stressed preparation and consistency as the foundation for success for all student-athletes who aim to make their mark.
Understanding how to build and maintain momentum through life and sports will open doors to new possibilities. Tyree reminded the team that every practice, play, and season is an opportunity to “catch your moment” and seize chances to shape your future.
David provided direction for Wilkes football players to plan for their careers after football. He explained that everyone cannot follow the same path. Some move to the next level while others pursue alternative opportunities. Each journey is unique and special, and Tyree emphasized that greatness isn't defined only by football, but by what you can accomplish beyond the game.
Tyree’s authenticity resonated with the young roster of student-athletes. His connection to the game and how his experience shaped his playing career fostered an environment of reflection and motivation for everyone in the room. Listening to a sports team keynote speaker who has gone through the ups and downs of his incredible NFL career was a life-changing experience.
The former NFL champion’s visit to Wilkes University left an indelible impression on players, coaches, and the broader athletic community in attendance. Through his Catch Your Moment keynote speech, Tyree highlighted the importance of life beyond football and how to prepare for the future as a student-athlete. While the message was directed to the football players of Wilkes University, it transcends to inspire anyone seeking to discover their potential and purpose as they pursue a new chapter of their lives
David Tyree is an engaging sports team keynote speaker who has experienced highs and lows throughout his inspiring NFL career. For teams and organizations seeking a motivational speaker who promotes authenticity in athletes, David shares a story and message that connect with young student-athletes.
David Tyree is an engaging sports team keynote speaker who has experienced highs and lows throughout his inspiring NFL career. For teams and organizations seeking a motivational speaker who promotes authenticity in athletes, David shares a story and message that connect with young student-athletes.
"Having David on campus this season gave our guys a spark of energy that we used to start our season fast. David did an unbelievable job speaking to our players about his story and mission. This was a guest speaker that our players will remember and talk about for years.”- David Biever, Head Coach at Wilkes University
Photo cred: JSI Productions