Shubert signs pro contract

NEWPORT, R.I. – Former Salve Regina football safety Maxwell Shubert (West Chester, Pa.)has signed a professional contract to play football in Finland. Shubert signed with Vantaan TAFT, one of the oldest American football clubs in Finland. 

Shubert was a four-year starter for the Seahawks from 2009-2012 while finishing his career ranked in the top-10 for several defensive categories. Over his four years, Shubert accumulated 184 total tackles, ranking him ninth all-time at Salve Regina. His 14 interceptions lands him second all time at SRU while his 235 interception return yards is third in school history. Shubert returned a pair of interceptions for touchdowns, second most at Salve Regina, and has five blocked kicks to his credit, also second most in school history.

Recently, Shubert and current offensive line coach, Daniel Kehew played in the Euro-American Challenge in Myrtle Beach, S.C. where Shubert was a member of Team Europe and Kehew a member of Team America. The Euro-American Challenge (EAC) is hosted by the CDFL, a football organization devoted to providing skill development and game playing opportunities for post high school and post college players between the ages of 18-25. The CDFL hosts the EAC as part of its efforts to provide football scouting opportunites for players in this age range. More information about the CDFL and the EAC can be found here.

Vantaan TAFT was established in 1981 and offers football teams starting from "F-Juniors" (8-10 year olds) to the men's first team, which plays in the Maple League, the highest level of football in Finland. 

To learn more about Vantaan TAFT, click here.

Vantaan TAFT release on Shubert:

TAFT signs Max Shubert, defensive back from Salve Regina

The first import to sign with TAFT this season is Max Shubert, 22, defensive back from Salve Regina (NCAA D3) college.

Shubert, a 4-year starter as a safety, is excited about his opportunity to play for TAFT. He had 40 tackles and five interceptions his senior year as the team went 9-1 in the regular season, and captured its first NEFC Boyd Division title since 2000.

TAFT wanted to hear what Max had to say about his contract.

What were your first thoughts when a team from Finland contacted you and wanted you to play for them?

My first thoughts were all very, very positive. TAFT has an outstanding winning program and now competing in the Maple League so from a football perspective I was excited about the opportunity to contribute to continuing the success TAFT has enjoyed.  I also was excited about the possibility to live in Helsinki and explore Finland for the season.

What were the reasons that made you sign with TAFT?

Coach Kuusisto made me feel comfortable TAFT would provide the best opportunity for me to achieve many of my goals I set. Having the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of the team, learning from my coaches and teammates, and building new relationships in a great city.

What are your expectations for the upcoming season, football-wise and of course what are you expecting from Finland?

Make our mark in the Maple League by winning the championship in 2014!!  I look forward to learning a new culture, developing new relationships, and the overall experience in living abroad in a world class city.

What would you consider to be your biggest asset for the team?

My biggest asset to the team will be my game knowledge and athletic ability. Having played football my entire life and being a four-year starter in college, I believe I will be able to help others on the team become better players not only physically but also mentally.

How do you prepare for the season?

The main way that I prepare for the season is by working out every day. This includes a strict lifting routine as well as a conditioning and agility routine. You have to be in the best shape when the season starts if you want to be able to perform at a high level on the field.

Max, thank you very much and welcome to TAFT family! Any last words?

 I am looking forward to helping TAFT and my team mates win the Championship, meeting new friends, and learning about a new culture and country.