Sports Spotlight: Sofian Massoud

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Everybody has a “how did you get here story.” For some it’s short, they were born and raised in North Dakota.

This week’s Sports Spotlight was born and raised in New York City and his football journey has taken him to the University of Mary.

“Been around a few different cities, definitely,” explained Sofian Massoud.

Marauders Quarterback Sofian Massoud returns for his second year with the program. Before suiting up on Saturdays, Massoud was just another kid in New York playing football for the Harlem Jets.

“Growing up in Harlem, a lot of the kids I grew up with, we were able to play football together. Some of them are in the NFL, some of the people I was personally close with. Learn to be tough, learn to play football. Harlem Jets, that’s what I know,” said Massoud.

Before his senior year of high school, Massoud transferred to Cypress Lakes, a school in the Houston area.

“Texas Football is serious. New York Football is serious too, but Texas Football that’s almost religion out there for them,” said Massoud.

Massoud originally signed with the University of Houston out of high school. After a few years there, he transferred to Hampton University. After a year there, he entered the portal once more.

“He went in the portal, we watched his film, and we recruited him. And we got him. THat’s how it works these days,” said UMary Offensive Coordinator David Schramm.

Year one at UMary was tough. The Marauders finished the 2023 season with a 2-9 record.

“I think it weighed on all of us mentally. Two to nine. It’s very difficult going through a season like that. This year we’re feeling a lot more comfortable. Winning in football is all about preparation. It’s all about camaraderie, being on one accord as a team,” said Massoud.

2024 will not only be Massoud’s second year at UMary. It’s also his second year working in Schramm’s offense.

“He’s been around a lot of football, a lot of different quarterbacks, a lot of different styles, guys from different backgrounds. Thing about Coach Schramm is that he’s a real football guy,” said Massoud.

“He’s very cerebral, he’s very athletic. We’re able to put some pressure on the defense with some spill stuff and get him involved. Defense is going to have to handle the quarterback run game so we can stress the defense a little bit more,” said Schramm.

Massoud and the Marauders open the season at home on Thursday night against the Jamestown Jimmies.

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