Note: The following appears in The Citadel football gameday program.
Some paths are paved by family ties, and for Reed Morrissey, the journey to Clemson was no different. With a family legacy deeply embedded in Tigertown, Morrissey’s bond to the area was established long before he donned the orange and purple.
“My parents graduated from here, and my older brother did, too. I always knew I was going to come to Clemson, regardless of whether or not I played football. My family sparked my love for Clemson, and when the chance to walk on to the team opened up, it was something I couldn’t say ‘no’ to.”
While football was not Morrissey’s initial focus, as he originally leaned towards baseball, his passion for the sport took off in high school. He received offers from other colleges, yet the chance to walk on at Clemson was one he could not pass up.
An important part of Morrissey’s development at Clemson has been his involvement with P.A.W. Journey, which has expanded his perspective and prepared him for life beyond the field.
“It’s been huge for me.”
P.A.W. Journey helped Morrissey secure microinternships with Cisco and Lima One Capital.
P.A.W. Journey’s trip to South Africa during the summer stands out as a defining experience. Asked about the most memorable parts of the trip, Morrissey shared the following.
“Hanging out with all the kids and seeing the joy that we were able to bring them gave a perspective on life and how much we take for granted here. Bonding with my teammates has been a great experience as well. I definitely got closer to a lot of guys who I didn’t really spend quality time with previously.”
The balancing act between being a student and athlete is something he acknowledged as a challenge. But this experience has taught him to prioritize and manage his time, lessons he values as key to his growth. Amidst a busy schedule, he finds joy in simple moments, like spending time on the lake with friends.
One of Morrissey’s favorite Clemson memories has been his involvement in Power Hour, a weightlifting program for redshirted players.
“Those lifts were some of my favorite memories. It was all about pushing each other and growing together.”
Winning the 2022 Power Hour Development Award was a meaningful recognition of his dedication and hard work.
Clemson has become a true home for Morrissey, thanks to both his personal experiences and cherished family memories from years of visiting the campus.
“Being here for games and visiting my brother shaped my love for this place. Living here, it has become my home away from home.”
The relationships and skills he has gained at Clemson have given him confidence and a sense of readiness for life’s next phase. As he prepares for life beyond Clemson, he is equipped for the next chapter.
“I’m confident that whatever I end up doing, I’ll thrive because of the discipline and time management I’ve learned as a student-athlete.”
While uncertain of his exact career plans upon graduation, he is assured of his preparedness regardless of what comes next.
“I’m confident wherever I end up. I’m trusting in the Lord’s plan and focusing on being great where my feet are.”
