Man Up Philly

At the 17th annual Man Up Philly Men's Spirituality Conference on March 8, 2025, Eddie Morris, Team Hope Captain, delivered a heartfelt address that resonated deeply with attendees. He shared the profound personal tragedy of losing his son-in-law, Johnny Gaudreau, and Johnny's brother, Matthew Gaudreau, who were both tragically killed by a suspected drunk driver while cycling in New Jersey on August 29, 2024, just before their sist...

At the 17th annual Man Up Philly Men's Spirituality Conference on March 8, 2025, Brian Dawkins, former Philadelphia Eagles safety and Pro Football Hall of Famer, delivered the keynote address. Known for his passionate playing style and deep faith, Dawkins shared his personal journey, emphasizing the role of faith in overcoming life's challenges. He highlighted how struggles can strengthen one's relationship with God, encouraging at...

Rich Gannon, former NFL quarterback and league MVP, spoke at Man Up Philly 2016. A Philadelphia native, Gannon shared his experiences from his successful football career and his journey of faith. Emphasizing the importance of character, leadership, and faith both on and off the field, he inspired attendees to strive for excellence and integrity in all aspects of life. His message encouraged men to embrace their roles as spiritual l...

Father George Grima, a Maltese missionary priest dedicated to caring for orphans and abandoned children in Brazil, Kenya, and Ethiopia, spoke at Man Up Philly 2016. Influenced by Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, Father Grima shared heart-wrenching stories of the children he serves, highlighting the dire conditions they face, including starvation and lack of medical care. His powerful presentation emphasized the critical need for compass...

Curtis Martin, founder and CEO of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), spoke at Man Up Philly 2016. Renowned for his dynamic evangelization efforts, Martin shared insights on living an authentic Catholic life and the importance of discipleship. His talk emphasized "flipping the switch" to fully engage with one's faith, inspiring men to lead with conviction in their families and communities. His powerful message e...

Chief J. Scott Thomson, Camden County Police Chief, spoke at Man Up Philly 2016. Leading the force in one of America's most challenging cities, Chief Thomson shared his experiences in reducing crime and transforming Camden. He discussed the importance of leadership, community engagement, and faith in addressing societal issues. His inspirational message highlighted how perseverance and strategic reforms can lead to significant posi...

Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, known as "Dr. Italy," spoke at Man Up Philly 2017. A theologian, author, and evangelist, Dr. D'Ambrosio captivated the audience with his engaging presentation on the early Church Fathers. He shared inspiring stories about St. Ignatius of Antioch, St. Ambrose, and St. Augustine, highlighting their profound impact on Christian history. His practical and humorous approach made complex theological concepts ac...

Damon Owens, an international speaker and founder of joyTOB, spoke at Man Up Philly 2017. With over 20 years of experience in evangelization, Owens shared his insights on living as a son of God the Father. He emphasized the joy and power that comes from understanding one's identity in Christ. Owens' talk also focused on building strong marriages and families through the teachings of Theology of the Body, encouraging men to embrace ...

Seth Joyner, former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker and cornerstone of the Gang Green Defense, spoke at Man Up Philly 2018. Known for his tenacity on the field and three Pro Bowl selections, Joyner shared insights on the importance of faith, discipline, and leadership. He inspired the audience with stories from his NFL career, including his time with the Super Bowl-winning Denver Broncos, and emphasized how his faith guided him thro...

Jim Towey, President of Ave Maria University and former personal attorney to Mother Teresa, spoke at Man Up Philly 2018. Drawing from his unique experiences working with Mother Teresa and his role as Director of Faith-Based Initiatives under President George W. Bush, Towey shared profound insights on faith, service, and leadership. His talk emphasized the power of living a life dedicated to serving others and the transformative imp...

Don Saleski, a former professional ice hockey right winger known for his career with the Philadelphia Flyers and Colorado Rockies, spoke at Man Up Philly 2018. Sharing his journey from the NHL to his successful post-hockey career, Saleski emphasized the importance of faith, perseverance, and leadership. He inspired attendees with stories from his time with the Stanley Cup-winning Broad Street Bullies and his transition to business ...

Brian Gail, a Knight of the Immaculate, author, and co-founder of three Catholic classical academies, spoke at Man Up Philly 2018. Drawing from his experiences as a father, entrepreneur, and writer, Gail addressed the challenges facing modern Catholic families. He shared insights from his acclaimed trilogy, which explores the impact of the “contraceptive mentality” on American society and the Church. His talk provided a powerful me...

Todd Monastero, a devoted husband, father, and inspirational speaker, delivered his final and most impactful speech at Man Up Philly 2019. Diagnosed with cancer in 2015, Todd shared his journey of faith and hope, proclaiming "I've Already Won" due to his deep trust in Jesus Christ. His powerful message about living with faith and courage resonated deeply, earning him a standing ovation from the 1,500 men in attendance​ (Legacy.com)...

Ron Jaworski, former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and renowned sports broadcaster, spoke at Man Up Philly 2019. Jaworski shared insights on how his faith influenced his career and personal life, emphasizing the importance of spiritual motivation both on and off the field. He connected with the audience through stories of his football journey, leadership, and the role of faith in overcoming challenges. His talk inspired men to in...

Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers, known as the "Dynamic Deacon," spoke at Man Up Philly 2019. A globally recognized Catholic speaker, author, and radio host, Deacon Harold delivered a powerful message on male spirituality and the importance of living a Christ-centered life. He emphasized the role of men as spiritual leaders in their families and communities, inspiring attendees to deepen their faith and commitment to God​ (Man Up Philly)...

Steve Bollman, founder of Paradisus Dei, delivered an inspiring talk at Man Up Philly 2020. He focused on the mission of his ministry to renew marriage and family life by integrating Church teachings, modern scientific findings, and the wisdom of the saints. Bollman shared practical insights and strategies for men to lead their families in faith, emphasizing the importance of a strong spiritual foundation and community support​ (Ma...

Immaculée Ilibagiza, a renowned speaker and survivor of the Rwandan genocide, shared her profound story of faith, hope, and forgiveness at Man Up Philly 2020. During her 91 days of hiding in a tiny bathroom with seven other women, Immaculée developed a deep relationship with God and found the strength to forgive those who had killed her family. Her moving talk emphasized the power of prayer, the importance of forgiveness, and the t...

Brent Celek, former Philadelphia Eagles tight end and Super Bowl LII champion, spoke at Man Up Philly 2020. He shared personal stories from his football career and emphasized the importance of family, faith, and being present in the moment. Celek discussed the influence of his grandfather, who instilled in him the values of hard work and belief in oneself. His inspirational talk encouraged men to support and uplift the younger gene...

Father Mike Schmitz, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Duluth and chaplain for Newman Catholic Campus Ministry, spoke at Man Up Philly 2021. Known for his engaging style and dynamic presence, Father Schmitz addressed the importance of deepening one's relationship with Christ and living out the Catholic faith with passion and purpose. His insights and practical advice inspired attendees to embrace their s...