#SpotlightSunday-Ali Marpet
Ali Marpet, a 22-year old offensive lineman from Hastings on Hudson, New York, made history on Friday, May 1st, when he was drafted as a second-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the highest division 3 draft pick in history and first-ever player selected from Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Ali was sent around the country over the past few months, from upstate New York to San Diego. He had the fastest time in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine in February.
Ali, a summer 2014 alum, went on Taglit-Birthright with us and his best friend, Jake Fuerst. We had the chance to speak with Ali and Jake about their trip and what's next:
What age did you start playing football at?
I started playing in fourth grade, but professional football was not in the cards until I stood out in college. The scouts started coming out by junior year. I had decided to go to a division 3 school for academics. It's really important [to both of us] to have a good education.
We're sure this has been an incredibly emotional experience. Can you tell us a bit about what this last week has been like?
This week is the culmination of months of hard work and college football.
What are you most excited about in the NFL?
Tampa gives me a place where I can compete and potentially play. We're coming in with the best player and quarterback in the draft, Jameis Winston (who was the number one overall pick), and I'm looking forward to seeing our team grow.
Outside of football, what do you like to do for fun?
I love watching movies, spending time with friends, going to gym, and playing pick up basketball. I also love to travel-my family goes to Jamaica every year.
Jake, how would you describe Ali?
He's the most honest kid I know and the last kid to brag. He demands respect without having to vocalize it. He's a leader on the field, so modest, driven, and so gifted with size and speed. He's a great friend.
Ali, who is your biggest role model and why?
Jake Fuerst, and my dad!
Why did you and Jake decide to take a free trip to Israel?
Jake signed us up last summer because we didn't know what the future would bring. With trainings and commitments, we knew that it wouldn't have been possible to take 10 days off to go to Israel. We got off the wait list three days before the trip and took advantage of the opportunity.
What's your favorite memory from your trip?
We shared a camel and the camel was so miserable and groaning because he had 400+ pounds on him. It was definitely the funniest moment of the trip.
What was your favorite food that you tried in Israel?
Hummus and schnitzel, but it was all so good!
Why would you recommend that others go on Taglit-Birthright Israel: Shorashim?
It gave us a greater appreciation of religion. There’s something to be said about having Israelis for all 10 days. We had a blast and we recommend Shorashim to everyone.
