Image courtesy of Jesus Ramirez

Tabor Academy defensive tackle Marcus Almada had 30 offers on the table from schools like Notre Dame, Clemson, UConn and UMass. In the end, he decided to follow his heart and commit to UCLA. 

Almada, a three star defensive tackle from Cranston, Rhode Island decided to join teammate Carter Gooden in Westwood. For Almada, UCLA fit the criteria of the three things he and his family were looking for.

“The three things me and my parents were looking for from a school were a high level of academics, a good relationship with the people in the program and a positive vibe on campus. A place that felt like home. UCLA met all three things we were looking for.” 

Family and Almada’s coach at Tabor Academy, Jeff Moore played a big part in helping him make his decision. 

“My family and Coach Moore were influential in my decision. They helped me by offering different perspectives and they were by my side the whole time.”

Almada also picked UCLA because he felt the school gave him the best opportunity to play early. He says the coaches told him to be ready to compete.

“I was told they lost a couple of guys and to be ready to compete for playing time. The opportunity to compete as a freshmen will be there.”

Almada is also excited to be going to UCLA with current teammate Carter Gooden who also committed to the Bruins today. The two have formed a strong bond that will now continue and grow in college.

“Last season was our first year playing together. We bonded and now getting the opportunity to play together in college makes it even more special.”

Tabor Academy Coach Jeff Moore  praised Almada’s ability on the field and what he brings to the table off the field as well. 

“Marcus is one of the most athletic defensive tackles in the country. He moves incredible well for his size and has an incredible knack to always be around the football. Marcus excels in the classroom and is an amazing teammate. He will have the chance to make an impact early at UCLA.”

Getting the opportunity to make an impact is part of Almada’s life long goal of playing college football. He will now get to realize his childhood dream. A dream that started at a young age. 

“It is amazing. I started playing flag football when I was six years old. My dream was to play to play college football. All the hard work along the way during this journey has now paid off.” 

Now he will live out that dream playing for a program on the West Coast. An impressive feat for a young boy who hoped to get that opportunity someday.