Jake Marzocca '16 Recruiting Profile

My name is Jake Marzocca; I’m a shooting guard/small forward for Centereach High School in New York. Growing up I’ve always dreamed of playing college basketball and now that day is quickly approaching. I want to play at the highest competitive level my ability allows at a college or university that has a great academic and athletic environment. Sports are a big part of my life- I’ve played them since as long as I can remember. Basketball, baseball, and football are the team sports I’ve participated in.  Although I’ve played many sports, basketball has always been my passion.

As much as I love sports, I firmly believe my education is first and foremost, which is why I am looking for a college or university with strong academic programs. From elementary school to high school I have always achieved High Honor Roll status and I’m a member of both the Spanish National Honor Society and the National Honor Society.  Additionally, I currently  hold a 3.8 GPA.  I challenge myself by participating in honors, AP and college level classes. I am also a strong presence in my community by participating in many service events, like accepting the role of assistant coach to a K-2nd grade boys’ basketball team, and by making care packages for the homeless at our local church.  Continuing to serve my community and excelling in my academic career is non-negotiable personal goal.

    Basketball is an integral  part of my daily life.  Not only do I play for my varsity school team, but I also play AAU, CYO, and several other intramural teams. I take advantage of the off-season to improve my game and get stronger by working out in the gym several days a week as well as working with Jerry Powell, a private basketball trainer. I play as a  6’2  forward and I have the power to take opponents much bigger than me into the post. I also have the ability to work around the outside too.  A very big part of my game is hustling because I’m always diving on the floor fighting for the loose ball and attacking both the offensive and defensive glass. I always find a way to contribute to my team, whether I am scoring, rebounding, assisting or getting steals. I am very vocal on the court in order to encourage my teammates and to keep them playing strong and working hard, which has earned me the MVP Award and the Team Captain title. I believe communication is a very big part of the game, it keeps the team focused and in sync. I’m a team player and I work hard to bring my team to victory.

    I will be a senior this year, so I have a more time to improve my game, both in school and on the court. I’m looking forward to my future in college, playing the game I love, while pursuing my academic dreams, too!