2026 In-season interview with Jude Clum from Fisher Catholic

 

Name: Jude Clum

School/town: Fisher Catholic, Lancaster

Positions played:
Defensive end and Offensive guard

Class: 2027

Height and Weight: 6’0 225

Jersey Number: 73

Awards won or earned: 2nd team MSL, HM All Ohio

HUDL LINK: www.hudl.com/profile/16387567

Other sports played: Baseball, Basketball

Twitter Handle: JudeClum_08

What were your personal goals heading into the season?

My personal goals were to play to the best of my ability and set the standard for our team. Heading into the season as the only returning captain came with a lot of pressure because I knew I had to set an example for the rest of my teammates.

What team goals did you set for your team?

Our goals were to win the league and win a playoff game. Unfortunately, we came up short against Berne Union and Grove City Christian. We still have a chance to win a playoff game with our last regular-season game coming up.

Who has been the best player that you have faced in a game this season, as well as the team he was on?

It would have to be James Hocking from Berne Union. He is a very good athlete. Our biggest problem was that he wasn’t playing his normal position when he played against us. He is such a gifted athlete that he can play different positions, and we just weren’t prepared for that.

Who has been the best team that you have faced this season, along with the one thing that made them so good?

It would have to be Berne Union. They took me out of almost every play so I wouldn’t be able to make any big plays. We also had some problems at defensive tackle because our starter and two backups were out. They took advantage of that.

What’s been the highlight of the season?

Definitely building stronger bonds with my teammates and coaches. It makes games a lot easier when everyone can communicate well with each other.

What’s been the lowest moment of the season?

Definitely losing our last two league games, especially against Berne Union, our rival. I wanted to be part of the first class in a while to say we went 4-0 against them. Losing to Grove City Christian was tough, too. We have never beaten them in high school, so that’s an itch I won’t be able to get rid of.

There is a lot riding on the game with Manchester this week. How will you handle the extra pressure?

As far as playing Manchester, it’s another week of business. I wouldn’t say there’s any added pressure. We just want to finish the season strong and carry that momentum into the playoffs.

Guard or defensive end: Which one do you feel you are better at?

I love playing both sides of the ball but I’d have to say defensive end for sure. I’ve played football since third grade, and I’ve always been a defensive guy. I can read the field better than most people, which definitely helps me when playing defensive end. That’s also the position that I’m mainly making the most big plays at. So id have to say that without a doubt.

What is the best part of playing for Head Coach Luke Thimmes?

It’s really easy to build a bond with him. If you love the game as much as he does, it’s pretty easy to get along with him. I believe having a good relationship with all your coaches is important in football. His knowledge of the game is incredible, too. He’s taught me so much, and a lot of my success is because of him.

Is there added pressure playing for a coach who has had a lot of success on the football field? Explain.

No, I don’t think there’s any added pressure. All of the players love him and get along with him. It definitely makes things easier for us because he understands the game like no other. Even during games he helps us understand the other team’s tendencies and helps us get into the right places for us to make big plays.

What makes you a good teammate?

Going into this year, I was the only returning captain, so I had to step into a big leadership role. I showed my coaches and teammates that they could depend on me early on. Now all my teammates trust me and look at me for any advice or questions they might have.

Bo Clum was one of the best players I have watched play at Fisher Catholic. Any chance you are related to him?

Yes, I am related to him. He is my second cousin. He and his brother were amazing athletes. Football just runs deep in my family.

Outside of sports, what are you doing for fun?

Outside of sports, if I’m not working, I love hanging out with my friends or spending time with my family.

What is a fad or style that your generation has that you do not get or understand?

I don’t get why people spend so much money on clothes. I understand wanting to look nice, but I’d rather just throw on clothes that are comfortable.

What is your favorite class or subject?

It would have to be Intro to Business. It teaches you a lot about financial topics and things you’ll need to know when you’re older that other classes don’t cover.

 Post anything from the 2025 season that sticks out to you the most. It can be from a practice, a game, the bus ride to or from the game. Any one moment that sticks out to you.