John Gay IV did not plan to announce his next college move on Father’s Day, but his coincidental timing would have made his late dad proud.

Gay IV, a former Penn-Trafford football standout who recently put his name in the NCAA transfer portal as part of his plan to leave Lafayette after two seasons, is heading to Maine.

“It was never my intention to commit on Father’s Day, but it all worked out that way for a reason,” the running back said. “I can’t complain; I’m so lucky and blessed to get this opportunity.”

A junior, Gay IV (6-foot, 190 pounds) was an All-Patriot League second team player in the spring as a kick returner. He returned five kickoffs for 108 yards and also blocked a punt.

He had seven carries in two games after rushing for 216 yards and two touchdowns in 2019. He also caught a touchdown pass. His father, John III, died in March at age 58. John Gay III was a star football player at Gateway and West Virginia and had a short stint in the NFL.

“(Maine) just seems like a great fit for me,” Gay IV said. “It’s a bigger program in arguably the best conference in FCS football. I’m all about competition and wanting to play against the best and beat the best. This was an opportunity I felt I could not pass up.”

Maine, which competes in the Colonial Athletic Association, has kept an eye on Gay IV since his high school days. He initially committed to Air Force but sought a greater comfort zone at the next level. Maine showed interest again when he left Air Force and again when his name popped up in the portal earlier this month.

“I think in this case, the third time is the charm,” Gay IV said. “This was meant to be.

“I’m ready to go in and compete to win the starting position at running back and help the team win however I can.”

This is for you Dad. We moving up and ain’t gonna stop. Happy Father’s Day. COMMITTED‼️ pic.twitter.com/YokEZVBO8U

— John William Gay IV (@Hoogie_46) June 20, 2021

Welcome to the FaⓂ️ily @Hoogie_46‼️

John Gay6-0 | 190 lbs | RB/KRJeannette, PAPenn-Trafford (Lafayette College)

Details: https://t.co/6iqxG7UuKR#BlackBearNation | #ChampionshipMentality | #CAAFB pic.twitter.com/sqibe3xpwS

— Maine Football (@BlackBearsFB) June 21, 2021

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