Loyola Running Back Named Chicago Bears High School All-Star

WILMETTE, IL — Loyola Academy running back Marco Maldonado was named the Chicago Bears "High School All-Star" for week 4 of the football season after a record-breaking performance last week that left him with a broken collarbone.

The NFL team announced it would direct a $500 donation to a youth football program of his choice. The Bears manager of youth football and community programs will also deliver a custom football to Maldonado.

Maldonado, a senior, led the Ramblers (4-0) to a 46-43 away victory over Brother Rice (3-1). Brother Rice ranked No. 3 in The Associated Press Class 7A poll ahead of the game.

The star running back carried the ball 38 times, scoring four touchdowns and setting a new Loyola Academy school record with 335 yards.

"Marco’s game against Brother Rice was the best performance by a running back I have ever seen in any level of football in my life," Coach John Holecek told Patch. "Unbelievable."

Loyola is now ranked No. 1 in the AP's Class 8A poll ahead of the Ramblers' matchup against Fenwick (3-1) on Friday.

In the first four games of the season, Maldonado collected 598 yards, 12 rushing touchdowns, two receiving touchdowns and two 2-point conversions for 88 points. He told Pioneer Press he has yet to receive a scholarship offer but hopes to return to the field by the end of a deep playoff run in November.