Key Highlights
- Drake Maye’s parents, Mark and Aimee Maye, share a family history rooted in athletics.
- Mark played football at the University of North Carolina (UNC) and was captain during his senior year.
- Aimee, an accomplished basketball player, supported her family’s athletic endeavors while juggling her own career.
- The Mayes have four sons who followed in their father’s footsteps into sports.
- Drake Maye recently helped the New England Patriots to a playoff win after being selected third overall by them in April 2024.
The Athletic Legacy of Mark and Aimee Maye
Mark and Aimee Maye, the proud parents of NFL quarterback Drake Maye, share a family history deeply rooted in sports. Their journey began at the University of North Carolina (UNC), where Mark’s athletic career took off.
Mark’s UNC Football Career
Mark played football for UNC from 1983 to 1988, captaining the team during his senior year. His impressive career saw him break multiple school records, including longest pass play and most passing yards in a single game.
Aimee’s Basketball Career
Aimee Maye’s athletic prowess was evident even before she met Mark. She was a star basketball player at West Charlotte High School, earning the Mecklenburg County girls’ player of the year title in her senior year. Despite her talent, Aimee chose not to play for UNC, as she told The Charlotte Observer in July 2017.
Building a Family of Athletes
The Mayes built their family on the foundations of athletics. They welcomed four sons—Luke, Cole, Beau, and Drake—all of whom followed in their father’s footsteps into sports. While all three older brothers played different collegiate sports (basketball and baseball), Drake chose to follow his father’s path by playing football at UNC.
Parental Influence on Drake
Mark spoke about the importance of character development over talent when raising his sons, telling 247Sports in July 2023. “We are really fortunate with our family,” he said. “The guys have, for the most part, adhered to their values.” This focus on character was evident in how the brothers competed and supported each other.
Drake’s NFL Journey
In April 2024, Drake Maye’s path reached a major milestone when he was selected third overall by the New England Patriots. In January 2026, he led the Patriots to their first playoff win since 2019. This victory underscored the legacy of athletic achievement that runs through the Maye family.
Family Meals and Rivalry
Raising four sons who all played sports was no easy feat for Aimee and Mark. One story that stands out is how Aimee would make a giant 36-egg meal, challenging her boys to see who could eat the most. The brothers now argue about who won this legendary family competition.
Aimee emphasized the importance of these meals in bonding with her sons: “I know for a fact every single time I made that meal, at the end of the meal, there was not a morsel of food left,” she told The News & Observer. This tradition highlighted how the family used shared experiences to create lasting memories.
Coaching and Inspiration
Mark helped coach his children in various sports, offering guidance that extended beyond the playing field. His involvement was a source of pride for both Aimee and their sons: “We were around it all,” Mark told 247Sports. “It was a great experience.” This hands-on approach instilled valuable lessons that would shape Drake’s journey in the NFL.
The story of the Mayes is one of family, tradition, and unwavering support for each other. As Drake continues his career with the Patriots, the legacy of his parents’ athletic achievements remains a constant source of inspiration and pride within their tight-knit family unit.
