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John Michael Maclay

Sentinel photo by TIM SHUMAKER
John Michael Maclay, center, makes a tackle in a Juniata College football game.

HUNTINGDON — Choosing a college is one of the hardest decisions a high-school athlete can make. Athletic endeavors have a short lifespan even for elite athletes.

What you decide to do for a career is far more substantial and picking the right college is paramount.

Former Mifflin County three-sport standout John Michael Maclay, the son of Michael Maclay and Tish Maclay, chose Juniata College four years ago and now as his athletic career comes to a close, the choice to be an Eagle has far surpassed his expectations.

“Coming here exceeded my hopes by far. I came here expecting to sit a few years and play later in my career, but things happened,” Maclay said. “We were short on guys, some couldn’t hack college and sports, so here I am. I’ve been very fortunate, especially spending four years here with my brothers from Mifflin County.”

The academic rigor was another attractive option for Maclay. Juniata College is known for its academics. Maclay, a physics engineering major with a minor in math, enjoys the challenge of balancing football and the classroom.

“You learn time management right away up here between athletics and academics. You either sink or swim up here. If you’re sinking, it’s not fun,” Maclay said. “I have homework in every class, every night. The professors are excellent. They work with you personally. It’s a great place to learn and compete in sports at the same time.”

Maclay was a two-year starter with 151 tackles, eight interceptions, 15 pass breakups, and three blocked kicks in his career. Like his Husky and current Juniata College teammates, Colton Craig and Kyle Bargo, Maclay has seen action since his freshman season. He and Craig served as senior captains.

“It’s an honor to be selected a captain. It signifies the hard work put into my time here at Juniata,” Maclay said.

Maclay played cornerback and punter at Mifflin County for three years and was co-captain in 2013. He was a third team All-State selection in 2013, a second team Mid-Penn All-Star choice for offense and defense his senior season. He also was a standout basketball and baseball player for Mifflin County.

Juniata ended its season and Maclay his football careerin Knox Stadium against rival Susquehanna.

“I’ve been very fortunate. I like the scheme we run up here. The coaches are really good, and they give you opportunities to succeed,” Maclay said. “If you work hard it’s rewarded. I think me and the guys from Mifflin County came up here to work hard. It’s a process, and if you stick with the process, you’re going to get results.”

Maclay committed to the process and the outcome is nothing short of success — now and in his future.

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