All Aboard the Shipley Train: The Story Behind Will Shipley’s Iconic Jersey
When you think of the Clemson University football team, several names might come to mind. But there’s one name that has been making headlines recently: Will Shipley. This freshman running back has been turning heads with his impressive play on the field. But there’s something that sets him apart from the rest – his iconic jersey. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the story behind Will Shipley’s jersey and what makes it so special.
The Origins of Will Shipley’s Jersey
Will Shipley’s jersey is not just any ordinary jersey. It’s a special one that has a deep meaning behind it. The jersey was first worn former Clemson linebacker James Skalski, who played with the number 47. Skalski was known for his hard-hitting style of play and was a respected member of the Clemson defense.
When Skalski graduated in 2020, he gifted his jersey to Shipley, who was a highly-touted recruit at the time. Skalski saw something special in Shipley and wanted him to carry on the legacy of the number 47 jersey. Shipley accepted the gift and took it as a challenge to live up to the standards set Skalski.
Shipley has since donned the number 47 jersey with pride and has become a fan favorite at Clemson. He has even started a tradition where he douses himself with two gallons of water before every game in honor of Skalski.
What Makes Will Shipley’s Jersey So Iconic?
There’s no denying that Will Shipley’s jersey has become quite iconic. Fans can be seen wearing replicas of the jersey at Clemson games and it has become a symbol of the team’s tenacity and hard work. But what is it about the jersey that makes it so special?
For starters, it’s the history behind the jersey. The fact that Shipley inherited it from a respected player like Skalski adds a layer of meaning to it. It shows that Shipley is not just any ordinary player, but one that has been trusted to carry on the legacy of a great player before him.
It’s also the way that Shipley wears the jersey. He plays with a fire and passion that is often praised Clemson fans. He has become known for his speed and agility on the field, but also for his toughness and willingness to take on defenders. When Shipley wears the number 47 jersey, it’s like he’s carrying a piece of Clemson’s football history with him.
FAQs about Will Shipley’s Jersey
Since Will Shipley’s jersey has become so popular, there are bound to be some questions about it. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the iconic jersey:
What number did Will Shipley wear before he inherited the number 47 jersey?
Shipley wore the number 8 jersey in high school.
What is the significance of dousing himself with water before every game?
The tradition of dousing himself with water before every game is in honor of James Skalski. Skalski used to do the same thing before every game as a way to get himself fired up and ready to play.
Can fans buy a replica of Will Shipley’s jersey?
Yes, fans can purchase a replica of the number 47 jersey on the Clemson Tigers’ official website.
What other players have worn the number 47 jersey at Clemson?
Aside from James Skalski and Will Shipley, former Clemson player Michael Hamlin also wore the number 47 jersey.
Conclusion
Will Shipley’s number 47 jersey has become a symbol of Clemson’s football team. It represents the team’s hard work, tenacity, and passion for the game. The fact that Shipley inherited the jersey from former player James Skalski makes it even more special. Shipley has embraced the challenge of living up to Skalski’s legacy and has become a fan favorite in the process. The iconic jersey is sure to be remembered for many years to come.
Sources:
- https://www.tigernet.com/player/Will-Shipley-413
- https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/clemson/why-will-shipleys-jersey-might-be-the-most-iconic-on-clemsons-football-team/article_0dc460f6-16f8-11ec-ad9b-cfbaf21a7cfe.html
- https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/sports/2021/11/12/clemson-football-will-shipley-running-back-james-skalskis-jersey/6338272001/