Each month, Montgomery High School Athletic Director Kris Grundy polls local coaches to select a female and male scholar athlete to spotlight as The Montgomery News Athlete of the Month. Each athlete will receive a gift from our sponsor — The Tiger’s Tale.
By Sam Bernardi | Posted April 16, 2025
It would have been easy for Brandon Rector to take his track and field responsibilities lightly. The 6-foot-2, 270-pound lineman is already committed to play football at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ).
He did not need to go all in and take the extra steps. However, like everything in his life, he has attacked his work with tenacity and dedication.
Brandon Rector will play football for The College of New Jersey.
Like many football players, Rector was initially drawn to track and field to sharpen his gridiron skills.
“I don’t feel good staying the same,” Rector said. “The goal is to be the best version of me, and the best version of me could be me 10 years from now.”
Rector has grown into one of the most prominent leaders and competitors on Coach Sean Carty’s team, and he knows that these types of athletes only come along every few years.
“He’s a leader, he’s a competitor,” Carty said. “He doesn’t want to miss a workout, miss a beat. He’s all-in during track season, just like he is during football.”
Rector is mature beyond his years, and his mindset allows him to succeed in all facets of life, whether in football, shot put and discus, or academically.
After qualifying for the prestigious Eastern States Indoor Track & Field Championships at the famed New York City Armory, Rector set a personal best in the shot put with an impressive launch of 49 feet, 11 inches. While he did not win the event, he took pride in a strong finish and the chance to talk shop with fellow opponents.
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When he’s not perfecting his craft, you can find Rector in the weight room.
One of Coach Carty’s favorite things about Rector is his musical taste. If he is controlling the playlist that day, you are sure to hear some 90s hip-hop.
“He’s always the last one to finish up in the weight room,” Carty said. “He definitely leads by example. I feel like especially during his senior year, I’ve seen him become more and more outgoing.”
Brandon Rector played for the Montgomery High School Cougars as No. 68.
One of Rector’s goals for the spring is to return to the big-man 4x1 relay, an event he partook in during his sophomore year. While Carty is reluctant to let his star race in the regular track events, the big-man relay is always a talking point.
Rector is sure to have a successful career not only at TCNJ but beyond. He is well-spoken, caring, and driven by success. ■
