Fitting into a new place isn’t always easy for high school athletes. New teammates, new friends and a new playbook can be a challenge. But for Branford High School senior Maurice Vought, the transition has become something special.
“It felt like home from the moment I stepped on campus,” Vought said. “The players and coaches welcomed me with open arms, and it’s a real brotherhood. I’m so happy to be a part of this amazing program.”
That brotherhood is happy to have him, too. The senior wide receiver hauled in five catches for 134 yards and a touchdown in Branford’s win over Trenton, earning him this week’s UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week honors.
Through the season, Vought has 50 receptions for nearly 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns, closing in on the goals he set before his final year.
“I wanted to be top five in the state in catches and get around 2,500 all-purpose yards,” Vought said. “Right now, I’m leading the state in that department, and I know I’m not done yet. I just try to approach every game with the mindset to help my team get a win.”
Branford head coach Tim Clark said Vought’s impact on and off the field has been undeniable.
“He brings energy and enthusiasm to our program every day,” Clark said. “The work he puts in and the way he prepares set an example for the rest of our guys. He’s our most electric player, and when we can create one-on-ones for him, it opens up the offense for everyone else. He’s such a big part of what we do.”
Now 6-2 on the season, Branford is in position to make the rural playoffs but hopes to keep winning to secure a home game in the opening round. That pursuit continues Friday night when Mayo visits the school Vought transferred from before joining the Buccaneers.
“I know most of those guys and know how bad they want to beat us,” Vought said. “I’m not one to talk much smack, but I’ll lead by example, keep my mouth shut and play as hard as I can to help us win.”
While his college plans are still undecided, Vought said his focus remains on improving each day and trusting his faith to guide him.
“I absolutely love playing receiver and the process of trying to get better every day,” he said. “The Lord leads me on and off the field, and I’ve become a better person because of that. He’ll lead me to what’s next, and I’m excited to see what my future holds.”
Each weekly UF Health Athlete of the Week winner becomes eligible for the UF Health High School Athlete of the Year Scholarship, a $2,500 award presented at the end of the 2025–26 academic year.