Middle Creek (NC) junior linebacker Joey Maya is a tackling machine that can be found all over the field. The 6-foot, 230-pounder from Cary, NC has a high motor that does not deplete over four quarters. As a junior, Maya collected an impressive 141 tackles and 4 sacks.

“The team can count on me to deliver great plays and be the leader of the defense. I also teach, help and motivate teammates to learn plays,” Maya explained.

The difference between a good linebacker and a great one is instinct, something that Maya possess naturally. His athleticism puts him in the right place at the right time. Maya can fill his gap against the run as well as drop back into coverage when necessary. His high IQ and awareness can be attributed to his intelligence as an individual. Maya boasts a 3.1 GPA in the classroom and is loved by his peers and teachers alike.

“I work hard in the classroom and in the gym and study film to be prepared on the field,” Maya told NCPreps.

With his senior season on the horizon, Joey Maya’s focus is geared towards helping his team succeed in anyway possible. If Middle Creek High School comes to your town next football season, be mindful of the playmaking linebacker known as Joey Maya.

How is your season going?

“My junior season went well. We finished the season 9-3.”

What are your season stats?

“Defensively, I had 141 tackles (10.8 tackles per game), 2 interceptions, 4 sacks, 3 blocked field goals, and 4 sacks.”

What are your career stats?

“In two years on varsity I have amassed 209 tackles (99 solo), 2 ints, 3 blocked FGs, 1 forced fumble.”

What are your strengths on the field?

“As a MLB, my strengths are shooting gaps with intensity, accurately reading offenses, adjusting the defense to make big-time plays and leading my team to a victory.”

What other sports do you play?

“I also run track.”

What schools are interested in you?

“UNC, UNCC, ECU, Duke, Elon, ODU, Liberty, Wingate, Wake Forest.”

Who do you model your game after and why?

“My role model is Luke Kuechly--he is leader on the field and admirable off the field with all that he gives back to the community. On the field, he is an extremely smart player who is very knowledgeable about every position on the field and directs his defense so they can adjust to the offense that is in front of them.”