Adam Soldati, the Purdue Director of Diving, was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and recently retired from coaching. Despite the initial bleak outlook from doctors, Soldati remains positive and determined to live life to the fullest. He credits his Christian faith for giving him an optimistic perspective and helping him face the challenges of the disease. Soldati’s family, including his wife and six children, has been a source of strength and support for him as he navigates life with ALS.
Soldati has adopted a holistic approach to managing his ALS, including daily workouts at Hotworx in West Lafayette, which include stretching, biking, and light lifting. He emphasizes the importance of detoxing the body to strengthen it against the disease. Soldati has also found solace in spending quality time with his family, particularly through the shared activity of golf. He has found joy and relaxation in playing golf with his family and values the time spent with his loved ones.
Despite his retirement from coaching, Soldati’s passion for mentoring young athletes remains strong. He believes in helping young men grow in wisdom and skillfully navigate life, not just in their athletic pursuits. Soldati views coaching as a way to guide athletes through life’s challenges and hopes to continue making a positive impact in their lives. While he may not be coaching divers for the 2024 Paris Olympics, coaching will still play a significant role in Soldati’s life in a different setting.
Soldati faces the challenges of ALS with courage and faith, starting each day with prayer with his wife. He recognizes the importance of overcoming our own selfishness and ego to truly love and serve others. Soldati believes that the biggest obstacle in life is often ourselves and that by focusing on others and embracing both failure and success, we can lead more fulfilling lives. He is determined to make the most of each day and cherishes the time he has left with his loved ones.
Soldati’s positive attitude, faith, and determination to live each day to the fullest serve as an inspiration to many. Despite the uncertainties of living with ALS, Soldati remains focused on what truly matters in life: love, family, and faith. His story is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of adversity. Soldati’s legacy as a coach and mentor lives on through the athletes he has inspired and the values he has instilled in them.
