The Full Story
Maxine's Legacy
Maxine Connelly, also known as 'the girl with the golden heart', had a passion for helping others. Maxine's friends and family proudly boast about a time when Maxine gave her last $20 to help feed others in need. In 2020, at the young age of 20, Maxine was welcomed home, and became the angel she was always believed to be. In her honor, The Max Volleyball Tournament was established. The Max is proudly partnered with Rally Gulf Coast, a non profit organization dedicated to childhood cancer research.
“Combining Maxine’s love of volleyball and her desire to help those in need is the perfect way to honor our special girl", says Marcy Eskanos, Maxine's mother, and The MAX founder.
"We have created Maxines a legacy; that would mean so very much to her.”
The fifth annual Max Volleyball Tournament will be held May 16, 2026 at The Salty Rose on Pensacola Beach. To Find out how you can get involved, compete in the tournament, or become a sponsor, please fill out our Contact Us Form.
The Girl with the Golden Heart
The love of Maxine's Life was helping others. She is remembered by friends and family as being 'selfless'. Maxine was known around the charitable community as an active member always willing to volunteer. Help continue Maxine's good work by donating, volunteering, become a sponsor, joining the tournament, or coming to support us.
For the Love of Volleyball
Maxine began playing volleyball as a young teenager and quickly fell in love with the sport. She showed her teammates leadership, was an amazing friend, and put all of her effort into her games. The Max Volleyball Tournament has been created by combining Maxine's love for volleyball and her love for helping people as a way to raise money for those less fortunate.
All tournament proceeds from The Max Volleyball Tournament will be donated to the Rally Foundation.
