State College Freshman Earns ACC Football Offer

Max Vendemia, a standout defensive back and wide receiver, receives his first Power 5 offer from Syracuse University.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Max Vendemia, a 6-foot-2, 175-pound freshman at State College High School, has earned his second Division I offer and first from a Power 5 conference, with Syracuse University extending him a scholarship. Vendemia, who was limited to just three games last season due to injury, made an impact by catching 5 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown, while also recording 11 tackles on defense.

Why it matters

Vendemia's early success and recruitment by a major college program like Syracuse highlights the talent and potential of young athletes in the State College area. This offer could be the start of a promising college football career for the freshman standout.

The details

Vendemia, who already held an offer from Akron University, received the Syracuse offer on Thursday. The 6-foot-2, 175-pound freshman played both defensive back and wide receiver for State College High School last season, despite being limited to just three games due to injury. In that limited action, he made an impact by catching 5 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown, while also recording 11 tackles on defense.

  • Vendemia received his first Division I offer from Akron University in late January 2026.
  • On February 12, 2026, Syracuse University extended Vendemia his first Power 5 conference offer.

The players

Max Vendemia

A 6-foot-2, 175-pound freshman defensive back and wide receiver at State College High School.

Syracuse University

A Power 5 conference university that has offered Vendemia a scholarship to play football.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Grateful and blessed to receive my 2nd offer from @CuseFootball! @CoachNixon_Cuse @PaFootballNews @PrepRedzonePA @BrianDohn247 @EdOBrienCFB @PRZVicCastillo”

— Max Vendemia (Twitter)

What’s next

Vendemia will likely continue to receive interest and offers from other major college programs as he continues to develop and showcase his talents on the football field over the next few years.

The takeaway

Vendemia's early success and recruitment by a Power 5 program like Syracuse University demonstrates the wealth of young talent in the State College area and the potential for local high school athletes to earn opportunities at the highest levels of college football.