Meet Julia

Meet Julia, the definition of an “all-in” player and person. A humble high school senior from Columbia, South Carolina, Julia pours her heart into everything she does. On the court, she shines as a fierce competitor with the Rollin’ Hornets, a wheelchair basketball program that has become her second family. Off the court, she’s just as dedicated to her love for college football that runs deep.

For Julia and her family, football is more than just a game… it’s a tradition. As she puts it, “college football is like church for the Palyok family.” Saturdays are spent cheering on her hometown team, the University of South Carolina, and following the dynasty built by coaching legend Nick Saban at the University of Alabama. These two programs represent everything she loves about the sport: legacy, grit, and excellence at the highest level.

Julia was born with spina bifida and had her first surgery just one day after birth. Since then, she has endured more than 25 surgeries – never fully knowing what the next challenge might bring. Yet through it all, Julia has carried herself with positivity, resilience, and a determined mindset that inspires everyone around her.

Her dream? To witness the ultimate football showdown: the best of the best competing in the biggest college football game of the year. Julia’s dream is to attend the 2025-2026 College Football Playoff National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium – a moment that would be truly unforgettable for this lifelong fan.

Julia's Dream

From the moment they arrived, Burke and Julia’s Dream On 3 experience at the College Football Playoff National Championship was nothing short of unforgettable. Julia’s Dream Experience started with an incredible surprise send off at her Rollin’ Hornets wheelchair basketball practice surrounded by teammates, family, and friends.

Upon arrival in Miami, the group was whisked off to CFP Headquarters — always a treat — and kicked off the weekend with private shopping sprees hosted by the CFP to jumpstart their dream weekend in style.

Saturday morning was a major highlight at Media Day, where Burke and Julia had full access alongside national reporters. They met players, took photos, and Burke even got to ask Carson Beck a question during his interview! Both kids snapped pictures with Beck and Fernando Mendoza, while Julia’s dream moment came true meeting legendary broadcasters Holly Rowe and Chris Fowler. Fernando even took the time to huddle up with Julia and Burke, participating in a “1, 2, 3 DREAM” cheer!

The weekend kept getting better with VIP concerts both Saturday and Sunday night — their favorite featuring Calvin Harris, Xandra, and John Summit.

Game day brought extra excitement as the families enjoyed a pregame tailgate on CFP’s Terrace, watching Pitbull perform live before heading into a thriller of a championship game where Indiana finished off their perfect 16-0 season.

A VIP pregame stadium tour — complete with a special message for Burke and Julia on the jumbotron — was the perfect finishing touch to an already magical weekend.

Huge thanks to the College Football Playoff for hosting our families all weekend long and making dreams come true in the biggest way possible!

Dream Snapshots

Thank you Lennar Charlotte