That dream is on the verge of coming true.

On October 4th, the Piqua senior gave a verbal commitment to the Miami University Redhawks to play football next season. The Redhawks first made an offer last June.

“I’ve dreamt about playing college football for as long as I can remember,” Hudson said. “Miami has such a great football tradition. It’s going to be an honor to play in such a fine program.”

Not only will he get to play in a quality football program but he’ll have the opportunity for a quality education as well.

“The academics at Miami are top notch,” he added. “That’s a very important factor.”

Hudson plans to graduate early from Piqua High School to enroll at Miami for the spring session, which begins January 10th. While there, Hudson plans to work out with the team and participate in spring practices.

Miami wasn’t the only major college to pursue Hudson. He also received offers from Ball State, Kent State, Navy and West Virginia.

“I wanted to verbal to Miami during the summer so I wouldn’t have to worry about the recruiting process during the season,” Hudson said. “However, I had some other offers show up and that delayed my decision.”

During his last visit to Miami, Hudson said it just felt right.

“The last time I was in Oxford, it just felt like the place I wanted to be for the next 4 or 5 years,” he added. “I've attended four home games in the last two years. The atmosphere is great and the campus makes me feel at home.”

Hudson is quick to give credit to the football program at Piqua.

“I can’t imagine even being in this position if I weren’t at Piqua,” he said. “(Piqua assistant coaches) Coach (Troy) Ouhl and Coach (Rick) Krejci have taught me a lot. Playing for Coach Nees has been such a great experience. He has helped out tremendously with the entire recruiting process.”

Hudson is expecting to play linebacker for the Redhawks. At Piqua, Hudson plays linebacker, tight end and handles the kicking duties.

Joe will be joining his sister, Molly at Miami. Molly is currently a sophomore and is a 2003 Piqua High School graduate.

“Having her there made the decision much easier,” he said. “She’s my best friend and she helps me with everything.”