On September 5, Max Merz (11) announced his commitment to the University of Louisville to continue his football career.
Merz is a lineman for Highlands High School and has been an essential team member for the Bluebirds. After his sophomore year, Merz began to show his talent and ability to get recruited by a Power Four school.
Although other schools had shown Merz interest such as Toledo University, Eastern Kentucky University, Marshall University, Kent State University, and Troy University, he eventually landed on Louisville due to the atmosphere that it presented him with.
“They have top-notch coaches and facilities. They are close to home and a great program to be coming into.”
After visits to Louisville, Amy Merz, Max’s mom, said, “They were so welcoming to all of us from day one. The coaching staff is amazing.”
Merz’s family is very supportive of his decision and cannot wait to see Merz playing in the future. As Louisville is only two hours away from Fort Thomas, Merz will be close enough to visit family from time to time.
From the parent’s perspective, Amy Merz described the recruiting and decision-making process as fun and inclusive. Between campus visits, spring camps, and game-day trips, the Merzs’ got to experience every aspect of the potential future.
Merz will continue to have the opportunity to improve, from being surrounded by excellent coaches at Highlands, to entering a new and inviting space like Louisville.
Head Football Coach Bob Sphire and Strength and Running Back Coach Shawn Zitt helped Merz significantly in the process of getting him the position he is in now.
Merz said, “I have always been surrounded by great coaches and people that are always supporting me and I know that I am going to have the same experience at Louisville.”
For years, Merz has been a role model for the team and this commitment will continue to inspire those around him. It sets a precedent for his teammates, proving that they can also get recruited.
Sphire said, “It means a lot for the other players who are working to play at the next level as well.”
Sphire also had praise for the program at Louisville, saying that the coaching staff is one hundred percent committed to that team and gives great chances to upcoming players.
Louisville will allow Merz to receive the best college football experience and possibly open him up to NFL opportunities if he chooses to continue to play in the future. Merz still has two seasons left with the Bluebirds, but is excited to carry his high school experience with him to Louisville in 2026.
