Massaponax DE Declan Ta’amai Shines at Spotlight 39 Pro Day, Earns MVP Honors

Fredericksburg, VA – Rising 2026 defensive end Declan Ta’amai made a statement at the Spotlight 39 Pro Day camp on March 15, 2025, at Brooke Point High School in Stafford, VA. The 6-foot-3, 235-pound standout from Massaponax High School delivered a dominant performance, ultimately winning the camp’s overall MVP award—an honor he admitted caught him by surprise.

“The standout moment for me was when I won the overall MVP award,” Ta’amai said. “I expected it to be a WR/DB or a QB. I had to look down at my shirt when they called 63, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s me!’”

Throughout the day, Ta’amai impressed coaches and writers with his explosiveness, agility, and relentless motor in both individual drills and one-on-one competitions. He credited the camp experience for helping him refine key aspects of his game.

“I had a great experience learning from some of the best coaches in the area,” he said. “I enjoyed every bit, from the warm-ups to the drills to the one-on-ones. I learned how to step through and change direction faster.”

As he prepares for his junior season this fall, Ta’amai is locked in on making significant strides in his game. His offseason regimen includes a mix of speed work and strength training to enhance his already impressive athleticism.

“My main focus this offseason is to get better all around,” he explained. “I already have great speed, and I’m working on resistance training to ensure that I remain fast while getting bigger. I lift six out of seven days, and I’m already up 20 pounds! I want to be able to overpower people and speed by them before they even see me at the same time.”

Ta’amai has a busy summer ahead, with plans to attend camps at James Madison University (JMU), William & Mary, Rivals, and defend his MVP tittle at the SL 39 Pro Day Finale, among others. He also has several unofficial visit invitations on the table.

With the 2025 season approaching, Ta’amai has set high expectations for himself and his team.

“Personally, I know I will get double-digit sacks this year. My goal is at least 15,” he said. “This year, I’ll also be starting at tight end, so I want to get at least five touchdowns this season! As a team, I want us to do our very best and beat everybody. We may not have been the best team last year, and we may be losing some very good players, but I promise you Massaponax will be the team to watch!”

With his relentless work ethic, growing skillset, and undeniable confidence, Ta’amai is a name to keep an eye on as he continues to rise in the 2026 recruiting class.