WVU Football Coaches Want to See More of 2025 Safety Recruit After Visit

The WVU football coaching staff likes three-star safety recruit Max Phenicie, but they want to see him in action in person. That was Penichie’s main takeaway from his time on campus.

WV Sports Now was then able to chat with the Indiana native about his visit and his plans for the rest of his recruitment.

Phenicie (6-foot-2, 205 pounds), who attends Zionsville High School, was in Morgantown on Jan. 13. And judging by how he describes himself as a player, it makes sense why the West Virginia coaches are interested in him, even though he’s not yet on the radar on some national recruiting outlets.

Had a great time @WVUfootball today! Look forward to getting back soon! I appreciate @CoachBlaineStew @Backendcoach12 and @CoachNardo14 for having me out! @CoachMillz_ @Coach_Cush pic.twitter.com/vueeN9ipvZ

— Max Phenicie (@PhenicieMax) January 13, 2024

A self-described defensive leader, Phenicie was able to get to know several coaches, but spent the most time with WVU tight ends coach Blaine Stewart. Phenicie also falls in the geographic recruiting area assigned to Stewart.

“I had a great time. It was really cool getting up there and seeing it all,” said Phenicie when asked to sum up his trip.

Phenicie said he came away feeling good about what he hears from the coaches, but he revealed they were also honest with him. “They said they really like me as a player, but would like to evaluate me in person,” said Phenicie about not yet earning an offer from the Mountaineers.

He will now be able to let his first experience at WVU sink in for awhile since he’s still trying to determine where to stop next. “I really haven’t decided yet. I’m still trying to figure out some dates as of right now,” said Phenicie about what’s next on his schedule.

To get a better idea who Phenicie is as a player, here’s how he views himself: “I would describe myself as a defensive leader. I also like to hit hard and coaches say I have elite football IQ and play sideline to sideline. I’m probably unique from most safeties in that I actually enjoy putting in the work to get better- focusing on watching film and working on my footwork both in and out of season.”

But even though Phenicie is still flying under the radar ranking wise, he does have options. If West Virginia decides to make their interest official with an offer, they will have to beat out the likes of Maryland, Michigan State and Ole Miss. Those are just some of the schools who have already sent Phenicie an offer.

Click here for the rest of WV Sports Now’s coverage of WVU football recruiting.