By Spencer DuPuis
LoCoSports Staff Writer
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*Update (2/13/2017): Briar Woods High School senior Ben Maffe has made a verbal commitment to play at D1-AA Richmond.
*Update (12/17/2016): Briar Woods High School senior Ben Maffe has decommitted from Marshall and reopened his recruitment eligibility.
Ashburn (October 25, 2016) – Briar Woods High School senior Ben Maffe has made a commitment to continue his football career at Division I Marshall University starting in the 2017-2018 school year.
“It definitely takes a lot of stress off my shoulders,” the 6-foot-3 Maffe said. “Hard work pays off really, if you put your mind to it you can achieve anything. I’m glad I found my future home early so I can just focus on my senior year.”
Committing in June, Maffe took his official visit October 22 and was able to watch Marshall come from behind to win 27-21 against Florida Atlantic, while pitching a shutout in the second half to improve their 2016 record to 2-4.
The Thundering Herd are coached by Doc Holiday – who is in his seventh season at the helm of the program. While at Marshall, Holiday has compiled a record of 52-32, which includes four bowl appearances which have all been wins.
“I chose Marshall because as soon as I stepped on campus it felt like home,” Maffe said. “The college town atmosphere is really what I was looking for and Marshall has one of the best fan bases in the country. It definitely felt like I was a part of the family already as soon as I met the coaches.”
Maffe – who will be able to play a variety of positions for the Herd including wide receiver, tight end and H-back – feels as though he has the size to be able to contribute as early as his freshman season.
“I feel with my size and speed I will add a dual threat look to the offense, and I feel that with my confidence I can add more to the team atmosphere,” Maffe said.
Although Briar Woods hasn’t had the best of records over the last two seasons, Maffe has had a blast playing for the school and has been able to put up astronomical numbers his senior season which include a total of 20 touchdowns and over 1,000 all-purpose yards; while adding three interceptions and one fumble recovery on defense.
“[It’s been] awesome,” Maffe said. “The tradition at Briar Woods has always been a good one with a strong family foundation. I’ve always loved playing for this school, the fans, and the community.”
Maffe mentioned that he plays football because it’s something he’s has always enjoyed.
“I play football because it is all fun to me,” Maffe said. “It clears my head of everything and I can just focus on the game. Football has always been a big part of my life and I am glad I get to continue playing in college.”
