Rarely do you see Division III football players make it to the next level. In the NFL alone, only six players played Division III ball. That written, the NFL is not the only game in town anymore with professional leagues in Canada, Mexico, across Europe and the UFL, which is a new organization in the United States formed by teams from the USFL and XFL.
Marvin Manassa is looking to change that narrative as he will be showcasing his skills at the National Scouting Combine, an event held in Westfield, Indiana.
Manassa is a fifth-year football player here at Stevenson who just wrapped up his final season as a Mustang. He was an elite defensive back for the team and in his past two seasons was selected to the All-MAC first team.
Manassa was invited at the conclusion of his final season to the Free Agent Senior Bowl, where only a select number of players are invited to participate. After the game, he was asked to participate in the Combine.
“I expect to use the National Scouting Combine as a platform to further showcase my skills, athleticism, and versatility,” Manassa said. He will not be the only Division III football player there, as a handful of other players got invited as well.
Manassa said the event is a chance for small school athletes to get the same looks and recognition as players at the Division I level.
After the combine, he’s excited to explore the opportunities that could arise from his performance. Whether it is the UFL, international football league, or Arena Football, Manassa is ready to take his next step.
From Feb. 19-22, Manassa will be competing in Indianapolis. Be sure to check in at the Villager to get daily stories on Manassa’s journey throughout the combine.
