The young generation of Eritreans who are excelling in
today's world is growing. Eri-International sports blog has recently been
following the success stories of soccer stars in Europe as well as other
sports. Let us now introduce you to another outstanding young man who seems to
have a bright future as a student-athlete. Surafael Ghirmai known by his
nickname "Rafiti" is a junior at Wakeland High school in Frisco,
Texas just outside of Dallas.
College bound Surafael "Rafiti" Ghirmai Lineman at Wakeland High School in Frisco Texas.
In order to understand the magnitude of high school football
in the state of Texas one just need to look at the media coverage and all the
following that goes along with it. While high school football in many parts of
America is a way of life in the Lone Star State the game is much more than a
sport, it’s a culture.
High School Football is a "culture" in Texas. To shine as a player is no easy task.
The blogger has covered high school football in South Carolina
where football is also king but in comparison to Texas it is a notch lower. In
this competitive sport that requires so much practice and effort an Eritrean
young man has been discovered as a top player. What makes Rafiti's success
unique is that he is a linebacker. Rafiti Ghirmai is 6-foot-5, and weighs 290
pounds and just finished his junior season at Wakeland where he was selected to
the all district team. For a big lineman his ability to move fast and allow
protection for the offense is an important aspect of the game of football.
Family is important and Rafiti pauses for a picture with mom during a recruiting trip to Texas A & M.
Rafiti Ghirmai who will be graduating with the 2018 class is
very much desired by some of the biggest college football teams. He has so far
been offered a scholarship by 16 schools including the University of Texas,
Texas A & M, Texas Tech, TCU, the University of North Texas, SMU as well as
Baylor University from the state of Texas. He has also attracted out of state
power houses like Colorado, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Bowling Green, Tulsa,
Iowa State, Kansas, UCF and he is only a junior. The list is very likely to
grow. What makes this young man unique is also the fact that he is focused on
his education.
Eri-International sports blog caught up with him recently
for a short interview as he recently participated in a national recruiting
event that showcases high school standout football players throughout the
United States. The US Army All American National Combine shows the talents of
the best high school players. It is an honor to introduce you to Eritrean
three-star prospect Rafiti Ghirmai who is ranked as the No. 31 offensive tackle
in the country (USA) according to high school football experts.
1. Why football and not another sport? At what age did you
decide that you were going to play football?
At first I wasn't a football kind of kid. But my brother
Yafet really pushed me into playing football. He made me do drills and helped me
on my footwork. I also had the body to excel in the sport so I pursued it more.
2. As an Eritrean it is not very usual to see an American
football player let alone a offensive lineman, when did you decide to pursue that
tough position?
I decided to be a lineman after my freshman year in high
school. After gaining 70lbs and also gained 5 inches, that's when I wanted to
pursue football seriously and be committed to it.
3. How was the family support from parents and siblings?
Ha! Ha! at first my mom didn't like football but over time
she started to love it because I loved it. But my family’s support is amazing
and I thank god everyday for them.
4. You seem to focus on academics as well as your football
career and you are setting a good example for many, why is it important to
focus on education as an athlete?
You can't play football forever. One day I will get older or
I may get hurt playing the sport, so I'm going to have to lean back on my education,
which should always be important to every athlete.
5. You are being heavily recruited by many big colleges, how
does it make you feel?
Personally, I never thought or imagined that top South
Eastern Conference and Big 12 schools would be recruiting me. I am blessed and
that fact that they are interested in me is a huge honor.
6. Anything else you would like to add or any advice you can
share to Eritrean-Americans or other immigrants on being a good
student-athlete.
To my fellow Eritreans, don't stop grinding!! No matter what
happens always be on your grind 110%.
Thank you for giving Eri-International Sports time to get to
know you. Wishing you much success in the future.
