Maynard shines on Dallas stage
BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
DALLAS — Martin County senior Devan Maynard turned a postseason honor into a statement performance. The Cardinal recorded 10 tackles and one tackle for a loss in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl on Monday at AT&T Stadium – home of the Dallas Cowboys.
Maynard, the Class 2A District Player of the Year, said the experience was unlike anything he had been part of before.
“The environment was crazy, especially because I’m not used to being somewhere this big,” Maynard said. “I didn’t know what to expect, but it was an awesome experience.”
Maynard’s included structured events leading into the game.
“The first two days I was down here, we had team practices,” he said. “On Sunday we had our jersey presentation, then Monday we had our game day which was a great experience.”
Maynard played multiple roles, working on defense and special teams.
“I played safety, punt and kickoff,” he said. “My favorite part about the trip was getting to play in the Dallas Cowboys stadium.”
Martin County assistant coach and media relations director Joshua Horn traveled with Maynard and his mother, Heather. Horn said Maynard earned the opportunity through the Blue-Grey process that began months earlier.
“He competed at their Kentucky Regional combine back in the spring and was selected from that,” Horn said.
Horn believes Maynard’s style of play translates in an all-star setting.
“Devan plays the game the right way,” Horn said. “He’s physical, competitive and instinctive, and he brings a high motor every snap.”
Horn credited Maynard’s instincts and reliability for helping him stand out among elite athletes.
“What separates him is his ability to make plays in real game situations – reading the field, reacting quickly and finishing,” Horn said. “He’s also a dependable teammate and a coachable kid, which matters at that level. His consistency and toughness really stood out.”
Horn said the trip was designed to be bigger than a single game.
“More than anything, we wanted Devan to experience what it’s like to compete at a national level. It’s beneficial being around elite players, top-level coaching in a professional environment,” he said.
“It’s about exposure, but it’s also about growth — learning how to prepare, how to carry himself, and how to measure his game against some of the best in the country. That kind of experience can be a turning point, both on and off the field.”
Head coach Josh Muncy said Maynard’s selection reflects the work ethic it takes to earn recognition outside the region.
“I think it just shows that we have tremendous talent here in Martin County and with hard work, determination and the help of our community, our student athletes can do anything they put their mind to,” Muncy said.
Muncy pointed to Maynard’s habits away from the spotlight.
“Throughout his career Devan was in the weight room every time the doors were opened. He was on the field every time the gate was unlocked,” Muncy said. “He put in countless hours, working to develop his speed, strength and skill set. Not only for himself, he always encouraged teammates to put in the extra work as well.”
Maynard was reminded that background does not limit potential.
“The best coaching advice I got while I was down here was that it doesn’t matter where you come from if you’re willing to do your best and go as hard as you can,” said Maynard. “You can do anything.”
Maynard said representing Martin County on that stage was personal.
“This trip meant everything not only to me but to everyone back home in Martin County,” he said. “No one has ever been on this kind of stage before, and I’m glad that I was the person who got to go and represent the best place with the best people on the planet.”
He is thankful for the local support.
“I want to thank everyone who has helped me out with donations and been so supportive of me,” said Maynard. “Martin County truly has the best people. Wherever life takes me, I’ll always be proud of where I come from.”