Marquis Young

Running Back

UMass

Alex Khvatov:  Tell us about your overall experience at the 2019 East/West Shrine Game. 

Marquis Young:  It is a blessing to be here.  A lot of people doubted me growing up.  I struggled a lot with my childhood.  I never thought that I would be in this position.  It is a huge accomplishment for me. 

Alex Khvatov:  What struggles did you go through in your childhood? 

Marquis Young:  I lost my mom when I was 10 years old.  My father was always incarcerated and he died in prison when I was 10.  I never had a chance to meet him.  My grandmother raised me.  It was tough for us.  We were raised in poverty.  I was raised at the Boys & Girls Club.  I met my mentors there.  They guided me.  I had a few bumps and bruises in my childhood, but I always tried to stay on the right track.  I stuck with it and changed my surroundings.     

Alex Khvatov:  How did you wind up at UMass?

Marquis Young:  I had a few big teams offering me.  I just didn’t have the grades.  UMass was loyal through the whole process.  They stuck with me when I went to prep school.    

Alex Khvatov:  What is the highlight of you career up to this point?

Marquis Young:  Scoring on Notre Dame.  It gave me my name.  I was a freshman who scored on Notre Dame.  I had a good game.    

Alex Khvatov:  What are your strengths? 

Marquis Young:  I set the tone well for my team.  I brought the team’s energy and intensity up.  I am a playmaker.      

Alex Khvatov:  What areas of your game are you trying to improve upon?

Marquis Young:  Everything.  I try to work on my cuts and my hands.  I try to be patient.  Watch more film and critique my game. 

Alex Khvatov:  What has been the main goal for you here at the Shrine Game?

Marquis Young:  Just because I come from UMass, doesn’t mean that I can’t play with the best of them.  We played against some SEC schools.  I will compete against anyone.      

Alex Khvatov:  What one word best describes you?

Marquis Young:  I persevere through anything and I am motivated.