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This former French youth international gained attention as a defender at Florida International University, where he also majored in sports management.
Pro Soccer USA caught up with Paul Marie on Saturday at the 2018 MLS Player Combine in Orlando.
Question: What are your emotions here at the MLS combine?
Answer: Well, I mean, for me, it’s a great, great and big opportunity. I wanted to be here, have the chance to be here, and now I’m just going to take the chance and I’m gonna do my best to show that I’m ready for the next level.
It means a lot because it’s always been a dream. And now we’re so close for it, my family and I. They just keep pushing me, always supporting me, and I’m so grateful for it. I know they’ll always be there no matter what.
Q: What are some hobbies you enjoy outside of soccer?
A: I like to be with my friends. Like, one of my biggest things is just to hang out with them, having fun. I guess, ya, just chilling.
Q: At what moment in your soccer career did you realize you had the potential and desire to one day be a pro?
A: Well I don’t think it came one day, but that’s always what I wanted to be. I grind for it. I do my best every day, and I know where I want to be.
Q: What player(s) do you look up to?
A: I think you can look up to every professional player because they made it. So, I’m looking up to them and I know what they do, what they’ve done. They’re a great inspiration. I have a lot of friends who are professional at this time, and I just look at them, and if they made it I know I can do it.
Q: What was it like to a play in Orlando City Stadium?
A: Thank you, Orlando. Thank you for letting us play on this field because it’s an amazing field. It’s [an] unbelievable facility. Like, the grass, that’s probably the best grass I’ve played on this year—probably in my whole life. So, I’m grateful for that, too.
Q: How are you different from all the other MLS prospects hoping to be drafted?
A: I will say my biggest strength is that I have patience for the game. I love the game, the beautiful game. I’ll play all my life. Started when I was 5 years old, and I worked really hard. I try to work harder than everyone else, and I know I can make a difference.
Q: What was one of your biggest moments of adversity?
A: Well, I had a big experience when I was in France and I got turned down for a professional contract. That was four years ago. I was playing for Caen, SM Caen. It’s a professional team, Ligue 1.
Yes, I had to look at myself…step back and come back. I felt really low, but now I’m back. It took me time, but here I am, and I’m ready for it.
Q: Would you mind playing in the USL or NASL to start your professional career?
A: No, I don’t think a player should mind that. What you should mind is to be always performing and consistent, and you will be where you’re supposed to be. That’s what I believe in.