Honoring the Life and Legacy of Jude Massillon

Jude was not just an author, inventor, and coach, but a visionary champion of human potential. Since 2005, as Managing Director of The Sports Performance Group (SPG), he empowered athletes at every level to realize their peak performance. His impact was extraordinary mentoring over 208 All-Americans, 166 High School All-Americans across six sports, 19 Olympians, 43 NFL First Round Draft Picks, 4 World Championship medalists, and national champions from 16 countries.

Recognized globally as an IAAF Level 5 Elite Coach, Jude also held more than 15 certifications and degrees in Exercise Physiology, Sports Development, and Strength & Conditioning. He was one of only two Nike-rated trainers in the New York metropolitan area, rated among the top 50 trainers in the nation. His clients included world and Olympic champions such as Ezekiel Kemboi, Michael Blackwood, Simeon Rice, Eric Berry, Julius Peppers, Lamar Houston, Marcus Camby, Charlie Ward, and rising stars across multiple sports.

Jude was also a respected lecturer for the International Amateur Athletic Federation (World Athletics), the American College of Sports Medicine, and a longtime member of USA Track & Field, serving as a Level 3 coach. His written works including The Athlete’s Body Within, The Preparation Phase, and The Nutrition Book have inspired athletes and health enthusiasts alike.

His entrepreneurial spirit extended into fitness innovation and wellness marketing, from co-leading The Omni Fitness Center, where he grew membership and introduced accessible programs, to Energlce, a healthy isotonic recovery ice bar brand. He was also the inventor of the RolPal, one of the most advanced professional massage rollers in the world.

Despite unparalleled professional success, Jude’s greatest strength was his humility and wholehearted devotion to others. His warm and friendly presence at events like The Armory’s Nike Indoor Nationals and the Millrose Games is fondly remembered by all. He was deeply invested in youth development, ensuring that student-athletes found pathways to succeed not just in competition, but in life.

Jude championed causes at the heart of the Urban League mission:

• Youth empowerment and mentorship
• Combating homelessness
• Affordable housing solutions, including support for the Tiny Homes Initiative

Above all, Jude believed in the dignity of every person and the transformative power of opportunity.
As a proud Haitian American, Jude carried his heritage with honor, showing what was possible through perseverance, vision, and service. His life is a reminder that when someone departs too soon, their legacy becomes our call to action. His example lights the path forward for us to build stronger, more inclusive communities that uphold hope, opportunity, and compassion.