JUPITER – Max Pareto is on a mission.

As his final campaign at Jupiter begins later this month, the 5-foot-7, 160-pound athlete wants to improve on what he accomplished this past year – six total touchdowns, 390 total yards in six games played.

The best moment for Pareto to date came in Week 3 against Palm Beach Gardens, which turned to be an eye-opening 35-28 win on Nov. 13, 2020. The athlete caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Billy Bates, which cemented his status as one of Jupiter’s most reliable playmakers in a game that saw him rack up 95 total yards and the score.

“It was a play-action pass and I did a little wheel route,” Pareto said.

With the 2020 season now in the rearview mirror, Pareto focused on conditioning for a good part of the offseason to improve on his craft.

For most of his mornings this past summer, Pareto performed a host of beach workouts to improve his agility. He also spent some time at Dyer Park (Riviera Beach/Palm Beach Gardens area) with with former Jupiter quarterback and 2020 Lou Groza Player of the Year Johnathan Mosley.

“We did some routes and footwork together,” Pareto said. “We ran on the hill at Dyer Park. He helped me improve my hand-eye coordination, route running, and speed.”

Pareto also took part in a some showcase camps this summer, which has parlayed into college interest from the likes of FAU, West Florida, North Greenville, and Wingate.

“My goal is to go to FAU and play ball there starting next year,” Pareto said. “It would be perfect for me. But if UWF offered me, I would still be happy because they’re the best D2 (Division II) college football program in the country.”

For now, it is all about the fall campaign at Jupiter.

“I’m just waiting for my first game,” said Pareto, who was voted by our New Era Prep followers as the area’s best athlete right now. “It’s my last ride being a Warrior, so I’m going to give all I’ve got this year nonstop and people will remember my name.”