Zionsville standout safety Max Phenicie has made his college decision and it is one that may have been a bit of a surprise, even to him.
Phenicie committed to Army (West Point), telling Indiana Preps until he learned about service academies, he had no interest in going to one.
“However, as the recruiting process went on and I learned more about it, it seemed like the perfect opportunity for me. I looked at it as more of a guaranteed job out of college that pays quite well. So because of those reasons, my two finalists came down to Air Force and West Point,” Phenicie said.
Phenicie said the decision is a huge relief and takes a lot of pressure off.
“There were multiple things that set West Point apart. I really have loved everyone that I have gotten to know there and they are all humble people. Also, they play great football and have a very great history. Lastly, the opportunities that going there provide later on in life was a big reason,” he said.
Army recruited Phenicie to play inside linebacker, which he said will be a bit of a change.
“They have developed many great linebackers from safety,” he said.
Getting the commitment out of the way before the season was a huge priority, according to Phenicie.
“It was definitely a priority to get it done before the season started because I don’t want to have to worry about it at all. I wanted to be able to give this season my full attention in order to have a successful senior year. I think we can accomplish a lot this season and it will definitely help to not have to worry about recruiting,” Phenicie said.
With the season on the horizon, the senior standout has several goals he is focused on.
“My biggest goal this year is to have a winning record. Also the ultimate goal is to win a state championship for my senior year. I really feel like we have the guys to do it. My personal goals are to make the all-state team at the end of the year and lead all safeties in Indiana for tackles and interceptions,” Phenicie said.