Maxx Maloch named Piedmont Athens Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Month

Athens, Ga. (May 28, 2026) - Piedmont Athens Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has named Maxx Maloch, a rising senior and football and baseball player at Commerce High School, its Athlete of the Month in recognition of his commitment to recovery following a concussion sustained during a football game.

In the weeks that followed his injury, Maloch experienced a range of symptoms commonly associated with concussion, including headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, eye strain, neck pain, fatigue, cognitive fogginess, and increased emotional responses. After his symptoms persisted for several weeks, Maloch began working with Andrew Teare-Ketter, a Piedmont physical therapist who specializes in concussion management.

“Maxx came to us still dealing with significant symptoms, which is not uncommon with concussion,” Teare-Ketter said. “Through targeted therapy and consistent effort, he made excellent progress physically, cognitively and emotionally.”

Teare-Ketter developed a care plan that included a combination of vestibular and ocular therapy to help regain balance, cervical rehabilitation to address neck pain, and a gradual progression of exercises designed to support the brain’s recovery. These, combined with specific return-to-sport activities, helped Maloch gradually return to his pre-concussion physical fitness abilities. 

Maloch’s recovery was supported by a coordinated care approach between Teare-Ketter and Sam Nicol, a Piedmont Athens athletic trainer supporting Commerce High School. Together, they ensured continuity of care by reinforcing therapy exercises and progressions both in the clinic and in the school’s training room.

Concussions are a form of mild traumatic brain injury that can affect multiple body systems, including vision, balance, cognition and emotional regulation. While many athletes recover within a few weeks, others may require a more structured rehabilitation program to fully return to normal activities. Early recognition, honest reporting of symptoms and a guided recovery plan are essential to achieving the best outcomes.

“Maxx showed a level of maturity that really stood out,” Teare-Ketter said. “He wanted to get back to playing football, but he understood the importance of being honest about how he was feeling and trusting the process. That mindset allowed him to fully heal and come back stronger, both on and off the field.”

As the Athlete of the Month, Maloch will receive a commemorative plaque and have his photo displayed at Piedmont Athens Regional’s Oconee Health Campus.

Piedmont Orthopedic and Sports Medicine provides comprehensive care for athletes of all ages and skill levels, including injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services. The program partners with local schools and athletic programs across northeast Georgia to support student-athletes throughout their seasons and recovery journeys.