Makai Bodden Commits To IMG Academy To Continue Football Career

Makai Bodden, a standout wide receiver for Nantucket's football team this past fall, announced Monday evening that he will be attending IMG Academy next year to continue his football career.

IMG Academy is one of the country's premier preparatory football programs, ranking in the top 10 nationally for five straight years. More than 200 student-athletes have been placed in college programs since its inception in 2010. The Whaler star is hoping to make his mark and have similar good fortune.

IMG Academy football alumni have joined some of the nation’s top universities and continue to be selected for the NFL Combine and in the NFL Draft. The school saw a record number get drafted last year in the 2021 NFL Draft, with seven IMG Academy alumni selected. The class included cornerback Greg Newsome, who was picked 26th overall by the Cleveland Browns, and quarterback Kellen Mond, who was picked in the second round by the Minnesota Vikings.

There are more alumni expecting to hear their names called this week including Alabama Crimson Tide offensive tackle Evan Neal, who is projected to be a top five pick in the NFL Draft this year. He helped lead IMG Academy to a 27-1 record in his three seasons with the program.

This program places an emphasis on overall player growth and development, while also providing significant opportunities for collegiate exposure throughout the year. Each student-athlete has a support system around them inclusive of a head coach, position coach, strength and conditioning coach, athletic trainers, teachers, college advisors, and more to aid in their developmental process.