Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck’s story began at Linden High School in Linden, California. Both were standout students, with Judge excelling in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball, while Bracksieck was equally dedicated to her academic pursuits. Their bond strengthened as they graduated in 2010 and moved on to Fresno State University in California.
Academic Achievements
At Fresno State, Bracksieck’s academic prowess shone brightly. In 2017, she was honored for her outstanding master’s thesis in kinesiology. Her research, titled “Posterior Elbow Angle During the Movement Phase of Throwing in Relation to the Susceptibility of UCL Injury in Major League Baseball Players,” explored elbow ligament injuries, a critical issue in baseball. This accolade highlighted Bracksieck’s dedication and intellect.
Relationship and Marriage
A Private Love Story
Despite their prominence, Judge and Bracksieck have maintained a relatively low profile regarding their relationship. They first appeared together on Judge’s Instagram in November 2014, participating in a Thanksgiving Day 5K run. Since then, Bracksieck has rarely been featured on social media, underscoring their preference for privacy.
A Hawaiian Wedding
Their love story took a significant step forward on December 13, 2021, when Judge and Bracksieck married in a private ceremony at the Montage Kapalua Bay Resort in Maui, Hawaii. The intimate event, attended by close friends and several of Judge’s Yankees teammates, was a testament to their close-knit circle. Bracksieck’s elegant gown and Judge’s classic tuxedo made the occasion even more memorable.
Support and Achievements
Standing By Judge’s Side
Samantha Bracksieck’s unwavering support was evident during Aaron Judge’s historic home run chase in 2022. As Judge tied and then broke Roger Maris’ single-season American League home run record, Bracksieck remained a calming presence. Judge acknowledged her support, noting how she stayed “calm as a cucumber” throughout the intense period.
A New Chapter in New York
In December 2022, Judge signed a monumental nine-year, $360 million contract with the Yankees and was named the team’s newest captain. During the press conference, Judge expressed his gratitude to his wife for her support and revealed their mutual decision to remain in New York. This pivotal moment in Judge’s career was shared with Bracksieck by his side.
Shared Interests and Public Appearances
Enjoying Sporting Events
While Judge and Bracksieck keep much of their relationship private, they are often seen together at various sporting events. In November 2019, they were spotted at a Fresno State football game, and they later enjoyed an NBA Playoff game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Boston Celtics. Their love for sports extends to tennis, as they attended the US Open in both 2022 and 2023.
Marathon Moments
Samantha Bracksieck’s passion for running has also been a significant aspect of their shared life. In November 2022, she ran the New York City Marathon, with Judge cheering her on. Their embrace at the finish line captured the essence of their support for each other. Bracksieck’s return to the marathon in 2023 saw Judge once again at the finish line, celebrating her achievement with pride.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Giving Back Together
Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck’s commitment to philanthropy is evident through their joint efforts. In November 2019, they visited young cancer patients at Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera County, California. Their visit, part of Judge’s ALL RISE Foundation’s activities, brought smiles and joy to the patients. The foundation, established in 2018, aims to inspire youth to become responsible citizens through various programs and initiatives.
Supporting Fellow Runners
Bracksieck’s dedication to running has also influenced others. Emily Rizzo, the wife of Judge’s teammate Anthony Rizzo, sought Bracksieck’s advice and support as she prepared for her first marathon. This camaraderie and mentorship highlight the supportive community surrounding Judge and Bracksieck.
Conclusion
Aaron Judge’s record-breaking achievements on the baseball field are complemented by the unwavering support of his wife, Samantha Bracksieck. Their journey from high school sweethearts to a philanthropic powerhouse showcases their deep bond and shared commitment to each other and their community. As Judge continues to make history, Bracksieck remains a calm and steadfast presence, embodying the strength behind his success.
