Former Ohio State Player Launches Hold Your Rope Initiative

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Former Ohio State University football player Rory Nicol on Jan. 21, 2026, launched “Hold Your Rope,” a mission-driven initiative he said is designed to promote resilience, accountability and community support for people facing personal adversity. Nicol’s initiative draws on his experiences after his football career, a period he described as involving personal struggle. He has framed the project around a symbolic gift he received in 2008, which he has since turned into a broader message about purpose and mental fortitude. According to information provided about the effort, Nicol is taking the “Hold Your Rope” message on the road through keynote speeches for organizations nationwide. The talks focus on navigating challenges, building support systems and making decisions rooted in accountability. The initiative also includes corporate partnerships and an online platform, which Nicol uses to share lessons and connect with audiences seeking tools for what he describes as a second chance. The materials provided did not specify what the 2008 gift was, who gave it to Nicol, or how it became central to the “Hold Your Rope” concept. The information also did not include details about specific partner organizations, the locations or schedule of upcoming speeches, or measurable goals for the initiative. Two names, Brian Evans and former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel, were listed among people associated with the story materials. The documents provided did not describe their roles in the initiative or include any statements from them. Nicol’s launch adds to a growing number of athlete-led efforts that emphasize mental resilience and community support, particularly for people working through setbacks after major life transitions. The “Hold Your Rope” initiative, as described in the provided information, is intended to offer inspiration and practical guidance without positioning itself as clinical treatment or a substitute for professional care. Further information about Nicol’s planned events, partnerships and the resources offered through his online platform was not included in the materials provided. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.