Wait! A football and basketball player who cuts hair? Yup! The player is “Jay, the Barber,” Justus Terry. He is a 270-pound defensive lineman from Manchester High School. As a top recruit for the Georgia Bulldogs, his athletic skills and family support have been key to his success. He committed to Georgia even before playing high school football. Terry’s journey began early, with him also being a basketball player. But his size, speed, and strength made him stand out.
Terry has worked as a barber for a year for the extra money. Being self-taught, he never saw a video on how to cut hair or learned it from anyone. He charges $10 for a haircut. “I can cut hair,” he said. “I’m good at it.” It may run in the family. “Cutting hair runs through the family and I just wanted to start making my own money,” Terry said.
Two individuals who have played a crucial role in shaping Terry
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Are you wondering how a barber motivated himself to level up as a football player?
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Terry gets his motivation from his family and his coaches. Georgia’s defensive line coach, Tray Scott, recognized Terry’s hard work and dedication, strengthening Terry’s decision to join the Bulldogs. He solidified his commitment by visiting Athens for the national championship celebration. Terry appreciated coach Kirby Smart’s focus on both athletics and personal growth. “He likes my size, my work ethic, how I’m always about work and business,“ Terry said, highlighting their mutual respect. Terry’s success is rooted in strong family support. His mother, Daphne Hardnett, has nurtured his talents and instilled values of hard work and humility. Her guidance keeps Terry focused on his goals on and off the field.
“The biggest thing I’m proud of with Justus is his humbleness,” Hardnett said. This reflects his behavior and attitude. His parents taught him to be a positive role model and contribute to the community. “It’s not always about football. It’s about personality and being a good young man,“ Terry shares. His other source of motivation has been his grandad. That’s Edward Terry, a devoted Christian with whom Terry grew up. His grandad has health issues and told Terry, “Jay I want to see you make it one day so you can help me.”
The future looks promising for the passionate Justus Terry
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Looking ahead to his career with the Georgia Bulldogs, Terry is set to make a big impact. He shared his commitment on social media. “I just had that feeling about Georgia,” Terry said. His choice of Georgia shows his belief in the program’s ability to develop him as a player and person, with his family’s support and experienced coaches. His commitment to personal growth and community aligns with his parents’ values. Terry has bench-pressed 350 pounds already, and he plans to increase it. “I plan on getting to 400 pounds on the bench press by the end of this semester,” Terry said. “By June. Just watch me. I’m going to get there.”
Terry is also a devoted Christian. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Terry said. He starts his career with the Georgia Bulldogs, and his family’s foundation will continue to guide him. Focusing on football and personal growth, Terry is set to achieve great things and make his family and community proud.