From Marcet to Princeton

The journey of Sam Massick: his transition from Soccer at the Marcet Academy to American University Football Elite.

After his time at the Marcet Academy, Sam Massick was accepted by Princeton University, but to play American football, not soccer as it is known in the United States. His soccer talent allowed him to join Princeton’s Tigers as a kicker, where he alternates his time between sports and his Public and International Affairs studies. Read about his story.

After high school, Sam decided to take a gap year before starting college. This year, the idea of experiencing a soccer academy in Europe emerged. After exploring various options, Sam chose Marcet for its “first-class training, incredible coaches, impressive facilities, and high-caliber players,” he explains.

While remembering the matches against teams like FC Barcelona, RCD Espanyol, and Girona FC, which were at a much higher level than he was used to in the United States, Sam says: “That competition and technical development with the coaches in terms of ball handling, passing accuracy and defensive skills, were crucial for my progress as an athlete.”

However, Sam doesn’t just recall his time at Marcet from a sports perspective: “Living and training in Barcelona was an incredible opportunity for me to experience the culture, learn the language, and meet amazing people.” He adds, “I left with many lifelong friendships, acceptable Spanish language skills, and a genuine appreciation for the culture, marking my first time in Europe.”

Representing Princeton’s Tigers, Sam plays in the top U.S. college competition, the Ivy League. In this league, he faces seven other institutions of sporting and academic renown: Harvard, Brown, Yale, Cornell, Columbia, the University of Pennsylvania, and Dartmouth.

“I work hard to be a good teammate and make a positive contribution to the team when they need me,” confesses the kicker. Balancing his sports career with studies, the former Marcet player, specializing in Public and International Affairs, dreams of serving in public service.