It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Notre Dame- Mary Atop the Golden Dome gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Notre Dame, IN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Our mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and immediately needed meds administered multiple times a”
“I have worked alongside Always Best Care and they have been amazing. Very quick”
“ABC is a great place to be! Thank you Patti, Stephanie, and Michele for all”
“Best Company I’ve ever encountered. I love how flexible and efficient they are. I love”
“Always Best Care has been exceptional the four years i’ve worked there. The staff and”
“I give always best care of 5 stars. They are caring and have a sincere”
“it is my pleasure to leave a review for the Coffee need that support the”
“I have worked with more home health agencies than I care to remember, both in”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I”
“I love the company I think they really do care about the employee the residents”
“I love working for Always Best Care The staff is very helpful, encouraging wonderful, loving”
“Always Best Care gives great encouragement and support to their caregivers during any situation or”
“Stephanie Stevens is a great CSD! Thanks for all you do!”
“Always Best care is amazing!”
“Always Best Care is a great company. Not only do they provide the best care”
“We have used Always Best Care two different times for our Mother. Both times the”
“Hi my name is Linda and I've been working with always best care for 2”
“I have used quite a few different providers and ABC is by far the best”
“Always best care has always been there when I needed them! They make it convenient for”
“Great place to work at very professional and appreciative for their staff”
“Overall a great company to work for! They do a wonderful job recognizing caregivers; from”
“They really help people when they need it”
“I've had caregivers for about 5 years now. Only having been disappointed and frustrated. Since”
“Carole is an excellent caring professional. She has been extremely helpful in advising us and”
“Our mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and immediately needed meds administered multiple times a day. After speaking to the independent living center where she resided, our family decided to hire Always Best Care for the meds (and then later for 24-hour aids). We cannot say enough about Darlene and Candy, as well as the numerous aids. Even at the end when our mom no longer needed the meds, they would often stop by to see her anyway. We generally do not give reviews of companies, but their caring approach was exceptional and we decided it was appropriate for others who need these services to know about our experience.”
“I have worked alongside Always Best Care and they have been amazing. Very quick to help out patients in need and staff is very polite and professional.”
“ABC is a great place to be! Thank you Patti, Stephanie, and Michele for all you do! You all are Awesome & thank you for the honors of being part of the team also acknowledging myself for Employee of the Month of March! You all are appreciated”
“Best Company I’ve ever encountered. I love how flexible and efficient they are. I love the open door policy. Michelle is my favorite schedule she does an amazing job with communication.”
“Always Best Care has been exceptional the four years i’ve worked there. The staff and schedulers, especially Michele, are helpful in finding compatibility for your clients, they’re also flexible in scheduling hours. Great company, great staff.”
“I give always best care of 5 stars. They are caring and have a sincere heart I love working with this agency..”
“it is my pleasure to leave a review for the Coffee need that support the most I would like Stephanie Kramer for supporting me and helping me get through my work schedules and feel comfortable at my place of employment. I am sad to see that she left Scheduling , but she still tries her best to help everyone even with her new position. Her dedication means everything I would like to Tasha as well for communicating with me so much I also cannot forget Patricia and Michelle as well. You ladies help me so much with my client. I greatly appreciate you ladies. I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that you ladies have with meeting me halfway when it comes to our job it definitely makes everything much easier. Keep up the great work as well as the rest of the staff thank you ladies for everything that you do and congratulations Monique on your new position.”
“I have worked with more home health agencies than I care to remember, both in GA and MI, when I worked in healthcare; and I have to say that Always Best Care is one of the best home health care agencies that I have found since the early 90's !!! I have been a client with Always Best Care since February 2022 and I have been extremely pleased with the help I have received both from my caregivers and the office staff. All the staff work hard and the quality of care is exceptional!!! The few occasions that I didn't like a caregiver because of either poor work ethic or personality, Always Best Care always took care of finding another caregiver to better meet my needs ASAP!! When I first started with Always Best Care I did get a few caregivers that weren't a good fit. But, within a very short period of time my scheduler learned my specific needs and personality and she found caregivers for me that were a wonderful match!! As in every area of healthcare, the high turnover of employees is to be expected!!! But, Always Best Care has always made sure that I have a new caregiver that matches my needs and expectations!! I have and would, highly recommend Always Best Care for your home health daily care!!”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I called a few months ago to set up a care plan for my elderly mom. She had a hip replaced, and lives alone. I knew we would feel better having someone there to help her and visit with her until she could get up and around on her own. ABC works through our scheduling nightmares (mom tends to send people home early, and tell them not to come back)….and they have been SO patient with our ever changing and increasing needs for mom. Their response time and communication are impeccable!!”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I called a few months ago to set up a care plan for my elderly mom. She had a hip replaced, and lives alone. I knew we would feel better having someone there to help her and visit with her until she could get up and around on her own. ABC works through our scheduling nightmares (mom tends to send people home early, and tell them not to come back)….and they have been SO patient with our ever changing and increasing needs for mom. Their response time and communication are impeccable!!”
“I love the company I think they really do care about the employee the residents”
“I love working for Always Best Care The staff is very helpful, encouraging wonderful, loving family. Thank you for the opportunity of serving for your company thank you to Michelle, who is always looking out for me and making sure that I have the hours that I need.”
“Always Best Care gives great encouragement and support to their caregivers during any situation or time of need. The care and dedication to their staff is incredible and I throughly enjoy my time working along side them!”
“Stephanie Stevens is a great CSD! Thanks for all you do!”
“Always Best care is amazing!”
“Always Best Care is a great company. Not only do they provide the best care for their clients, but they go above and beyond for their staff as well.”
“We have used Always Best Care two different times for our Mother. Both times the care was excellent. I have referred Always Best Care to several people.”
“Hi my name is Linda and I've been working with always best care for 2 years now and it's a great atmosphere I like coming in to work meeting new people. It's a place that's kind friendly and it makes you feel at home it makes you feel that you're working with people that understand you know you're different needs your different hours and if something come up they are there to help you with anything that you need help with it's a great company I'm so glad I signed up with the company I signed up a little bit after the pandemic and I just needed somewhere that I could really consider myself at home or I find a home and I have I'm amazed at how the people are so nice when you talk to them on the phone how nice they are friendly you can tell this saying it with a smile I enjoy working there I tell people ask me where I work at always best care they like what yeah always best care yes it's a nice company sign up with it you won't regret it I'm glad I do it I'm really glad I did”
“I have used quite a few different providers and ABC is by far the best company. From the office staff to the caregivers, they are doing what they love and it shows.”
“Always best care has always been there when I needed them! They make it convenient for me to take care of my father. I most definitely recommend them!”
“Great place to work at very professional and appreciative for their staff”
“Overall a great company to work for! They do a wonderful job recognizing caregivers; from big recognition like a monthly caregiver award and random drawings, to small recognition such as any time you visit the office you are free to grab snacks, beverages, gear and more often than not there is some type of food they have ordered that is available. They really don’t hold back in this area! There has been quite a bit of changes made in office positions within the last year. Response time, outside of the scheduling department, can be improved upon.”
“They really help people when they need it”
“I've had caregivers for about 5 years now. Only having been disappointed and frustrated. Since Always Best Care came into my life, my worries have ended. I never knew if previous caregivers were going to show up, or do what I needed. Everytime they would complete a task, they would sit down and be on their phone. Kari and Jamisha finish a task and right to the next. No problems. My mind has been put at ease. They are very professional yet so so friendly. They ask, what else they can do for me. I also have my ABC emergency call button. Now I have peace of mind if an emergency should arise. My case coordinator Stephanie Stevens. Stays right on top of my case. Thank you so much for making my life easier. I have recommended your company to others that may need assistance in the future.”
“Carole is an excellent caring professional. She has been extremely helpful in advising us and in scheduling care. With respect to the caregivers, we have no complaints. We want to give a special thank you to Rhona for her time and effort in creating a special bond with our mother.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Governor Joseph Kernan Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Traditions or visit The Word of Life Mural, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Notre Dame, IN, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Notre Dame, IN understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Notre Dame, IN 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Notre Dame Football Midweek Mailbag originally appeared on Athlon Sports...
Notre Dame Football Midweek Mailbag originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Wednesday means it's Mailbag Day on IB Nation Sports Talk! IB's Sean Stires and Vince DeDario answer listener questions about Notre Dame football and more on today's show. Today's topics include:
* Thoughts on the 2007 non-catch against Stanford by Notre Dame receiver David Grimes that should have been rule a catch.
* What conference would you want Notre Dame to join if they were forced to join a conference?
* If college football goes to a single transfer portal, when should it be?
* Should Notre Dame name its starting quarterback sooner than later?
* How many wins of 10+ points will Notre Dame have this season?
* Notre Dame great Tim Brown, who's now the commissioner of the Arena League, says the NFL should do away with kickers.
* What Notre Dame offensive and defensive players become household names this season?
* More!
There's more to discuss and debate in Rapid Fire as well. See the list of topics below!
* Marcus Freeman is a guest on the most recent episode of the Joel Klatt podcast. We discuss what the Fighting Irish head coach said about where college football could be headed in the future.
* Freeman and Klatt recorded that podcast episode in the Notre Dame locker room and Klatt shared his own thoughts on the modernization of Irish football mixed with its traditional elements.
* The future of the Notre Dame – USC rivalry also came up and we discuss Freeman's comments.
* We talked all about some of Notre Dame’s top plays of the last 25 years on yesterday’s show. An IB subscriber said on the Champion’s Lounge that the top plays topic got him thinking about the worst plays of the last 25 years. He nominated two: 1) When Pat Dillingham said “here, you take it, just don’t hurt me” to the BC linebacker enroute to like 7 turnovers the week after we beat #1 Florida state. Deja vu all over again. 2) 10 men on the field against OSU. Do we really want to go down this road?
* Fill-in the blank: Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia had some interesting comments about the Big 10 on the Bussin With The Boys Podcast this week. Pavia said “You want to play with the best – you don’t want to play with the Big 10...you ignore those calls. The SEC...it’s week after week you’re going to get beat on. The Big 10...you’re not gonna get beat on with the Purdues...Nebraskas.”...that is BLANK.
* There’s a mini-Stephen A. Smith controversy going on after he was caught playing solitaire on his phone during an NBA Finals game between the Pacers and Thunder. Big Deal or Little Deal for Smith to be gaming during a game he’s covering?
* There were multiple skirmishes in the Indiana Fever’s win over the Connecticut Sun last night. Multiple technical fouls dished out when Caitlin Clark and Jacy Sheldon mixed it up and former ND star Marina Mabrey got in the mix and bumped Clark to the floor and then later Indiana’s Sophie Cunningham had a hard foul on Sheldon to keep her from scoring on a layup. Was it too much or just good, hard basketball?
Be sure to check out the Irish Breakdown message board, the Champions Lounge
Irish Breakdown Content
2025 Scholarship Chart2025 Football Schedule
Notre Dame 2026 Scholarship Offers
2025 Commit Rankings - Offense2025 Commit Rankings - Defense
2024 Recruiting Class2023 Recruiting Class2022 Recruiting Class
Become a premium Irish Breakdown member, which grants you access to all of our premium content and our premium message board! Click on the link below for more.
Be sure to stay locked into Irish Breakdown all the time!
Join the Irish Breakdown community!Subscribe to the Irish Breakdown YouTube channel Subscribe to the Irish Breakdown podcast on iTunes Follow me on Twitter: @SeanStiresLike and follow Irish Breakdown on Facebook
Sign up for the FREE Irish Breakdown daily newsletter
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
This story appears in Blue & Gold’s 2025 Notre Dame football preview. You can purchase your copy of the 160-page, full-color, glossy magazine covering Fighting Irish football right here.Notre Dame football’s presence in North Carolina shows no signs of slowing down.When the Fighting Irish unveiled their 2027 recruiting board on Pot of Gold Day, sending scholarship offers t...
This story appears in Blue & Gold’s 2025 Notre Dame football preview. You can purchase your copy of the 160-page, full-color, glossy magazine covering Fighting Irish football right here.
Notre Dame football’s presence in North Carolina shows no signs of slowing down.
When the Fighting Irish unveiled their 2027 recruiting board on Pot of Gold Day, sending scholarship offers to high school sophomores, eight new offers were reported in the Tar Heel State. Two additional prospects from North Carolina received offers this spring.
Only California (21) and Texas (10) — states with 28 million and 20 million more people than North Carolina, respectively — were better represented during the program’s St. Patrick’s Day-themed recruiting event March 17.
This reflects both the high school football talent in North Carolina and Notre Dame’s commitment to tapping into it.
“North Carolina has a lot of athletes,” longtime national recruiting analyst Tom Lemming told Blue & Gold. “They have a lot more players who seem to be elite-type athletes. … North Carolina is one of those states that seems to be loaded with players.”
Among the top players Notre Dame has offered from the Tar Heel State in the 2027 cycle are two national top-100 recruits from Raleigh: Millbrook High four-star edge rusher Rashad Streets and Cardinal Gibbons four-star cornerback Xavier Hasan. The Irish are also recruiting top-100, four-star tight end Jaxon Dollar from East Lincoln in Denver, N.C.
Streets, Hasan and Dollar are ranked by On3 as the Nos. 55, 59 and 87 overall players nationally and the Nos. 1, 3, and 4 players in the state in 2027. Streets is the nation’s No. 7 edge rusher, Hasan is the No. 5 cornerback and Dollar is the No. 6 tight end.
Hasan and Dollar have shown early interest in Notre Dame, visiting campus for the Irish Invasion camp June 6. Notre Dame also has a strong recruiting presence at Rolesville High School In Wake Forest, where they’ve offered scholarships to the program’s top three sophomore prospects: four-star wide receiver Anthony Roberts, three-star safety Marquis Bryant and three-star running back Amir Brown.
On3 ranks Roberts, Bryant and Brown as the Nos. 8, 10 and 22 players in the state. Roberts and Bryant are also ranked nationally as the Nos. 161 and 221 overall players and the Nos. 25 and 20 players at their respective positions.
Brown, the No. 36 running back nationally, already considers the Irish a frontrunner in his recruitment after visiting campus in April.
“Right now, they’re leading my recruitment,” Brown told Blue & Gold.
The Irish are also pursuing Millbrook four-star linebacker Quinton Cypher, Greensboro (N.C.) Dudley four-star edge rusher Andrew Rogers, Charlotte (N.C.) Providence Day School three-star edge rusher Griff Galloway and Charlotte (N.C.) Chambers three-star linebacker Michael Griffin.
On3 ranks Cypher, Rogers, Galloway and Griffin as the Nos. 7, 9, 20 and 23 players in North Carolina. Cypher and Rogers are also ranked nationally as the Nos. 118 and 167 overall players in the class. Cypher and Griffin are the No. 7 and 38 linebackers in the nation, while Rogers and Galloway rank as the Nos. 21 and 49 edge rushers, respectively.
Look for Freeman and Co. to do all they can to add those players to Notre Dame’s 2027 class commit list.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are building an elite 2026 class, and Marcus Freeman's haul just got that much better.It's being reported that Grayson McKeogh, a four-star offensive tackle from Glenside, Pennsylvania, has committed to the Irish. BREAKING: Four-Star OT Grayson McKeogh has Committed to Notre Dame, he tells me for ...
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are building an elite 2026 class, and Marcus Freeman's haul just got that much better.
It's being reported that Grayson McKeogh, a four-star offensive tackle from Glenside, Pennsylvania, has committed to the Irish.
BREAKING: Four-Star OT Grayson McKeogh has Committed to Notre Dame, he tells me for @on3recruitsThe 6’8 285 OT from Glenside, PA chose the Fighting Irish over Texas and Penn State“All glory to God. Go Irish ??”https://t.co/dxUy038Fc3 pic.twitter.com/FvOOCMSjzi
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 18, 2025
This is a big win for Notre Dame, especially because Freeman and his staff were able to steal McKeogh right out from under Penn State's nose. PSU was a finalist for the four-star's commitment alongside the Texas Longhorns.
McKeogh took an official visit to Notre Dame this past weekend, and that in-person visit paid off in a big way for the Irish.
“I just feel that it’s where I fit in best,” McKeogh told On3 regarding his commitment. “All those guys that surround the program feel like me and are people who I can surround myself with for the next couple years. You are who you surround yourselves with and aside from the great academic and football prestige that’s what they’ve got.”
McKeogh was also smitten with the culture around Notre Dame. It's as historic of a program as they come, and that seems to have played a role in his decision.
“The environment was really something to see,” McKeogh said. “From the beginning to the very end it was all about the tradition and energy of the program. Even all the players had that energy and had the idea of presenting the program that they believed in. The way Coach Freeman and Coach Rudolph can develop me is really exciting. “Playing alongside all those players and commits would be something I can see myself doing.”
McKeogh is ranked as the No. 20 offensive tackle in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite. With his commitment, the Fighting Irish now have 17 commitments in a class that's ranked No. 3 nationally.
More must-reads:
The Notre Dame football program beat out Penn State for another Pennsylvania offensive lineman yet again.On Wednesday, Wyndmoor (Pa.) La Salle College offensive tackle Grayson McKeogh announced his verbal commitment to the Fighting Irish. The four-star recruit decided to move up his July 1 decision ...
The Notre Dame football program beat out Penn State for another Pennsylvania offensive lineman yet again.
On Wednesday, Wyndmoor (Pa.) La Salle College offensive tackle Grayson McKeogh announced his verbal commitment to the Fighting Irish. The four-star recruit decided to move up his July 1 decision date by nearly two weeks, committing after his official visit to South Bend last weekend. The 6-foot-7, 280-pound McKeogh ranks as the No. 8 player in Pennsylvania and the No. 21 offensive tackle nationally, according to the On3 Industry Ranking.
Penn State, a finalist, hosted McKeogh for an official visit the weekend of June 6. That marked his fourth trip to Happy Valley, two more than he made to Notre Dame. Yet, the nation’s No. 278 overall player found South Bend to be the best fit.
“You are who you surround yourself with,” McKeogh told Blue & Gold before publicizing his decision. “I feel that Notre Dame was the best fit.”
Initially slated to visit Texas this weekend, McKeogh canceled that trip following his commitment. He had previously received scholarship offers from 22 other Power Four programs, including Alabama, Florida, Ohio State, Tennessee and Wisconsin. McKeogh is viewed more favorably in On3’s rankings, slotting as the No. 181 overall player, No. 16 offensive tackle nationally and No. 5 player in Pennsylvania in the class.
McKeogh becomes the second Keystone State product to join Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class. Mechanicsburg (Pa.) Cumberland Valley four-star offensive lineman Tyler Merrill was the first, committing to the Irish on Jan. 30. The 6-5, 330-pound Merrill, ranked as Pennsylvania’s No. 3 player, is also the No. 128 overall prospect and No. 4 interior offensive lineman in the class.
Notre Dame may not be done recruiting in Pennsylvania in the 2026 cycle, either. McKeogh’s teammate, four-star safety Joey O’Brien, also officially visited South Bend last weekend. O’Brien, a top-40 national recruit, is set to announce his decision Friday. Both McKeogh and O’Brien had Merrill’s attention during their visit.
“I try to get on those guys and let them know, ‘Hey, we want you here. This is a spot that is not like anywhere else,’” Merrill told Blue & Gold on Sunday. “I make sure they hear it from me because I’m a PA guy. But all the other guys, they reach out to them, too.”
In the Marcus Freeman era, Notre Dame has successfully tapped into Pennsylvania’s talent pool, signing two recruits from the state before McKeogh. Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep four-star linebacker Anthony Sacca committed in the 2025 cycle, while Malvern (Pa.) Prep four-star offensive lineman Peter Jones joined in 2024. Both were top-10 prospects in Pennsylvania and Penn State legacies.
Notre Dame offensive line coach Joe Rudolph played a pivotal role in securing Jones, Merrill, and McKeogh. A product of Belle Vernon, Pa., Rudolph’s Pennsylvania roots have strengthened Notre Dame’s recruiting in the region.
McKeogh becomes the fifth offensive lineman in the Irish’s 2026 class, joining Merrill, Gregory Patrick, Ben Nichols and Sullivan Garvin. The trio of four-star linemen from Michigan rank as the Nos. 9, 17, and 31 interior offensive linemen nationally, respectively.
McKeogh’s recruitment timeline differs significantly from Notre Dame’s other offensive line commits.
Before his junior year, McKeogh held offers only from Duke and Syracuse. His remarkable physical transformation—gaining 100 pounds since his sophomore year—combined with a standout junior season that earned first-team all-state honors, rapidly elevated his profile. By November, Penn State had offered, followed by 14 other Power Four programs. Notre Dame joined later but quickly drew a compelling comparison between McKeogh and former Irish offensive tackle Joe Alt.
Like McKeogh, Alt was a late bloomer. Initially a 240-pound high school tight end, Alt transitioned into an elite offensive lineman and became the No. 5 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. During McKeogh’s first Notre Dame visit on April 16, Rudolph noted the similarities.
“They think I’m that guy and can turn out similar to someone like Joe Alt,” McKeogh said. “They found parallels between me and him coming into his freshman year. So, they could really develop me. They think I have a really high upside. …
“They told me how he came in as a tight end. He wasn’t the heaviest, but he was definitely taller than most. It was the idea of switching positions growing up, finding that spot on the O-line and getting stronger and heavier, but being able to maintain that athletic ability while you’re there.”
McKeogh played primarily at left tackle for the La Salle College Explorers, who finished 10-1 last season before losing to Sacca and Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep in the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship.
Initially recruited as a defensive lineman, McKeogh recorded at least 20 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks during his sophomore year. Last season, he contributed on defense with 4 tackles and an interception while thriving on the offensive line.
Off the field, McKeogh boasts a 4.14 GPA and is a member of La Salle’s varsity basketball team.
One of Notre Dame football’s 2026 class recruiting targets is set to come off the board later this month.On Wednesday, Toledo (Ohio) Central Catholic tight end Preston Fryzel told Blue & Go...
One of Notre Dame football’s 2026 class recruiting targets is set to come off the board later this month.
On Wednesday, Toledo (Ohio) Central Catholic tight end Preston Fryzel told Blue & Gold that he plans to announce his verbal commitment Monday, June 23. His finalists are Notre Dame, Iowa and Miami (FL). On3 national recruiting reporter Hayes Fawcett first reported the news on social media Wednesday evening.
The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Fryzel visited Notre Dame twice and also made a trip to Miami earlier this month. Before those visits, he acknowledged Cincinnati, Duke, Iowa, Minnesota and Pittsburgh as his initial group of favorites. However, the Irish, Hurricanes and Hoosiers have emerged as his top three schools down the stretch. Fryzel finished up his Notre Dame official visit just three days ago.
“As a (football) program, they’re going to compete for a National Championship every year,” Fryzel told On3 vice president of recruiting and transfer portal Steve Wiltfong after his Notre Dame official visit. “As for school, they’re a top school in the nation academically.”
Fryzel is one of the top tight ends in the 2026 class. In On3’s rankings, he is a three-star prospect who ranks as the No. 19 player in Ohio and No. 17 tight end nationally. He totals 29 scholarship offers, including 21 from Power Four programs.
Fryzel was a key player in Central Catholic’s run to the state championship game last season. He earned all-state honorable mention from the Ohio Prep Sports Media Association after recording 43 receptions for 807 yards (18.8 yards per catch) and 10 touchdowns in 16 games.
Fryzel previously told Blue & Gold that general manager Mike Martin sees him as a strong fit for Mike Denbrock’s system. Martin was the one who offered Fryzel on May 21.
“They’re looking for a receiving guy,” Fryzel said. “A ‘big slot.’ I think my film shows that with my ball skills.”
Fryzel comes from the same school that produced former Notre Dame quarterback Deshone Kizer. Overall, he was one of the best players in his high school’s history, completing 345 of 584 passes for 5,684 yards and 56 touchdowns. Kizer guided Central Catholic football to a state championship in 2012.
Notre Dame is looking for its first tight end commit in the 2026 cycle. Currently, the class features 16 verbals and ranks No. 5 in the country in the 2026 Industry Ranking football Team Recruiting Rankings.
574-232-8487
