Joseph Marriott '24 Recruiting Profile

My name is Joseph Marriott. I am a center back for North Middlesex Regional High School, and part of the 2024 graduate class. Coming from an Italian background, the beautiful game was introduced to me practically at birth. One of my favorite, and earliest memories dates back to 2014, when I was just nine years old watching the World Cup final between Germany and Argentina with my grandfather during a Sunday dinner. Being the oldest grandchild, the two of us were always close, and he took me under his wing to develop me into the player and person I am today. I still remember visiting him at the nursing home, being tossed the ball and kicking it back, despite him being in a wheelchair. As I grew older, I took pride in discovering and studying other Italian footballers who I would eventually model my game after. It did not take long for me to understand that defending had always been the heart and soul of this nation's play. While many would be asking coaches to play striker or on the wing, I was always passionate about playing in the back. I felt that the role of a center back was to provide structure, support, and primarily, leadership to their team, a responsibility I was very happy to accept. "Playing for a purpose" has always been my motto, and although I have lost some of the people who have inspired me to be the person I am today, each and every time I step onto the pitch, I will always represent them, and aim to make them proud. My determination, persistence, and leadership are qualities I consider to be the best of my game, and those who know me are aware that I will never compete without playing with all my heart. To this day, I still embrace facing new challenges within the game, and I am constantly looking to improve. Soccer has always been a constant presence in my life, and I look forward to continuing my athletic journey at the highest level possible.