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Sunshot from file — Hart County safety Montae Maxwell puts his arms like an air plane in celebration after making a play for the Bulldogs’ in 2019. Maxwell recently committed to play college ball at Georgia Southern University.
Hart County defensive back Montae Maxwell is fulfilling his lifelong dream.
The standout senior recently committed to play football at Georgia Southern University next year, taking another step toward what he says has been his dream since he was a young child.
“It feels wonderful,” Maxwell told The Sun about his commitment. “Ain’t much changed, it’s going to keep me on my same grind. I’m going to keep pushing and getting better everyday, but I’m definitely happy about it.”
Maxwell, a first-team all-region and an all-state honorable mention selection last year, held down the back-end of the defense last season, picking off opposing quarterbacks several times throughout the year and providing a spark on kickoff returns.
Choosing from about 11 collegiate offers, Maxwell said Georgia Southern felt like the right pick because of the “hype” atmosphere and the coaching staff.
“One thing, I’m a Georgia boy. I like that Georgia ball,” Maxwell said about why he chose Georgia Southern.
Maxwell has been on several visits to the school and said the coaches all treated him with respect, while showing him how things are done there.
“The love and the character they have around that building, it’s a great place to be at and play ball at,” Maxwell said.
Georgia Southern produced a 7-6 (5-3) season in 2019 with a defense that allowed 28.15 points per game and snagged 12 interceptions.
Maxwell hopes to contribute to the Eagles’ defense and special teams units early.
“I can really play any position they want me at though,” Maxwell said. “...The goal is to make a name for myself on that starting D (defense).”
Now that Maxwell has a destination set for post-graduation, he said he’s focusing his attention on the Hart County Bulldogs’ impending season, as well as his academic work.
“Stay focused in the classroom, stay focused outside of the classroom, stay on my grind and get a ring for my coaches,” Maxwell said about his plans for this school year.
To get a ring, Maxwell said the team needs to continue being consistent and work hard everyday.
“We got to grind hard and get better, get better everyday,” Maxwell said.
The Bulldogs recently wrapped up their camp, which Maxwell said went well, and are looking forward to Sept. 4 when they face-off against rival Elbert County in the Granite Bowl.
Maxwell thanked several individuals and groups for helping him get to this point.
“I want to thank my coaches,” Maxwell said. “I want to thank coach (Kendell) Rucker. He’s like a guidance to me with the sports stuff. I want to thank my family and I also want to thank my school.”