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Zak McGaw’s senior football season at Jefferson County was one that could take him a lot of places. And for McGaw, it took him to the collegiate level.

On Tuesday in front of friends and family, McGaw signed to continue his academic and football careers at Maryville College.

“It’s a good day,” McGaw said. “Coach (Ben) Fox gave me an opportunity to play at Maryville, and I am ready to get to work over.”

When it came down to where he wanted to spend the next few years, there were multiple reasons Maryville College was the right choice for McGaw.

“It’s a small campus and I really like that, and they have a good football program,” McGaw said. “Coach Fox reached out to me in early January, and I just liked it over there.I think I’ll fit in nice over there. They have a good QB.”

McGaw’s senior season was one to remember, leading the team in receptions, yards and touchdowns. McGaw caught 40 passes for 697 yards and scored six touchdowns.

“My time here has flown by,” McGaw said. “I’m glad I went here and got to experience all of it. I was just able to contribute to the team and help them out the best I could (during his senior season).”

For Jefferson County head coach Spencer Riley, McGaw was a huge piece this past season for the Patriots offense.

“Super excited for Zach and that he gets this opportunity to play college ball,” Riley said. “So proud of him. He’s put in a lot of hard work and dedication to our program. He’s helped us establish a great wide receiver core. He just has gotten better each year. He just made himself a better football player from day one.”

McGaw still has a few weeks left in his high school career and then the summer before getting to Maryville College. During that time, he wants to work on multiple things to get ready for college football.

“I’m just trying to work on myself,” McGaw said. “I am just looking to get bigger, stronger and faster to prepare myself for the college level.”