Note: The following appears in the Louisville football gameday program.
Sam Judy is known for both his uplifting attitude and determined mindset, as his “Judy Jig” dance videos provide an entertaining aspect for a locker room that works to achieve success all season.
But for Judy, the path to where he is now has not always been an easy one. Judy joined the team as a walk-on in 2022 and said it was one of the best decisions he has ever made.
Before becoming a Tiger, Judy played at nearby Eastside High School, where he honed his skills and sharpened his work ethic to pursue his lifelong dream of playing college football. Judy contributed as a member of the scout team before making his debut in 2023.
“The process was surreal. I walked into Memorial Stadium, a facility that I’ve seen a million times through videos, and took it all in.”
Judy’s first impression to the team was quite a memorable one, as he was quickly acclimated when his videos went viral in the locker room.
“The ‘Judy Jig’ was originally something I showed to my friends, and they told me to post it, so one day I did. In my first fall camp, I was sitting in a meeting and Coach (Dabo) Swinney pulled it up in a team meeting. I had been quiet up until that point, just trying to figure everything out. Now all of the sudden, I have this video of me dancing shirtless in the team meeting room, so obviously it’s hard to stay low-key after that.”
Now, Judy has become a popular figure in the locker room, both inspiring and motivating teammates as he provides a fun spirit for the team.
“I like to have fun with people and try to be a light and be a smile.”
His colorful personality and hard-working nature is credited to his family, which has shown undying support.
“Their help has been immeasurable. I couldn’t do it without them, and it’s a blessing to be able to have that support system and their love and affection. They’re showing up to practices, showing up to every game and I know I can find them after the game and they will be there with a hug and to show some love.”
Judy has been a Tiger fan his entire life, and having a family that bleeds orange made it clear that Clemson was his first choice. The offensive lineman is passionate about his Tiger pride.
“I grew up a Clemson fan, and we’ve been a Clemson family, so it’s always been a dream to come here.”
Experiences, such as taking part in P.A.W. Journey, have helped shape Judy into the person and man he is today.
“I got the opportunity to go on a service trip with P.A.W. Journey to South Africa, which was life-changing. We visited another continent and experienced another culture, and that was really cool.”
When asked about his favorite memories since becoming a Tiger, Judy pointed towards the famed pregame tradition.
“Getting to run down the Hill for the first time was an amazing experience. Watching that growing up and having that dream become a reality was cool.”
Judy is a marketing major who intends to pursue a career in sales. When asked about how he manages to play football while still achieving success academically, the two-time ACC Academic Honor Roll member mentioned the sacrifices that a college athlete is forced to make in order to attain academic prosperity.
“It’s a lot of sacrifice, and you have to have a strong ability to say ‘no’ and say ‘I have to get this work done and prioritize this.’ I came to Clemson to pursue football, but first and foremost to get a degree and get my education.”
In his free time, Judy enjoys being around his friends and listening to all kinds of music.
“I love music. I don’t really care what kind, but if you like music, that is one thing we can connect on.”
Whether it is on or off the gridiron, Judy is carving his own path.
