Marian Menden: A Receiver's Rise in European Football

Marian Menden: A Receiver's Rise in European Football - Perfect Pervis

Meet Marian Menden, a rising star in German football, now showcasing his talent as a receiver for the Cannes Iron Mask in France's Division 1 Elite. With a strong background in Germany's top league and a basketball pedigree, Menden brings a unique blend of skill and athleticism to the field. In this interview, he shares his inspiring journey and aspirations for the future.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

I started playing as a Running Back in the U16 and had a great first year. I took part in a tryout for the all state team (Saarland/Rheinland Pfalz) and got selected to play as a receiver. Moving to U19, I ultimately moved to receiver and had a breakout year right away with 10+ touchdowns in 8 games. Unfortunately, we missed the playoffs that year. The following season, I once again scored 10+ touchdown season, and we made the playoffs, ultimately losing to the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns. My last U19 year was affected by Covid and we didn’t really have a season. After the U19 I moved up to the GFL Team. Around that time I also quit playing basketball, because I wanted to focus 100% on American Football. The competition at receiver was hard and I was limited to a handful of snaps a game, which I tried to make the most of.

BECOMING A TALENT

I felt like I could show a lot more than I was doing in practice and I struggled with self confidence, but I kept waiting for a chance to prove myself. I got my shot in the quarter finals against the Cologne Crocodiles. After the half I got subbed in and went for 3 receptions for 72 yards and the touchdown in one drive. The next year I got my shot at the starting job. I finished the year with 25 catches for 440 yards and 6 touchdowns. My best season was in 2023, with 50 receptions for 840 yards and 8 touchdowns. After the 2023 season my friend and I were contacted by the Cannes Iron Mask. The decision was a no-brainer, because it has always been a dream of mine to be a European import.

I was extremely lucky through my years of football in terms of staying healthy, with most of my adversity being getting that GFL starting job. I feel like I still have to prove myself. Now in a different country, I feel like this year is very important for my development and my future in football.

MARIAN MENDEN ON THE FIELD

I would describe myself as a physical receiver with great route running and secure hands. I can make those contested catches, and I’m a big target for my quarterback. In terms of impact on the sport, I am always trying to give my knowledge to anyone that has open ears for it, may it be my teammates or youth players. Most of my experience was learned from more experienced players, and I think if you stay critical with yourself and you're hungry to learn you're gonna succeed.

CURRENT ROLE & WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

Of course when teams bring you in as an import you are expected to make the team better in every facet. My role is of course being a starting receiver and playmaker, but in fact at the end of the day I’m only one of possibly four receivers on the field so all of the guys need to be on the same page. We have a great group of guys with so much talent and I’m trying to make the guys around me better. 

My goals and plans in the future are probably going back to my hometown GFL team, and putting myself on the map for European football. Like is said I feel like I’m far from perfect, but the main goal is to always make progress and not be satisfied. But right now it’s all about the Iron mask and having the best season possible.

LEGACY IN THE MAKING

I feel like there still is a lot of legacy to be built, and a lot to be achieved. I want to make the most out of my football career and I’m excited for what’s coming. Everything I’ve done until now has led up to where I’m at right now. So I’m convinced that where you picture yourself in the future has a big impact on where you’re gonna end up, if you keep on working.