Day in the Life of a Pro in Israel-Jake Rozhansky Ep. 43 How to Become a Professional Footballer

Jake Rozhanksy is a 23 year old Professional Footballer who plays as a winger for Hapoel Afula in the Liga Leumit (second tier) in Israel. Jake is originally from Germantown, Maryland. He played 1 year of college soccer at the University of Virginia before transferring to Maryland University to finish up his college career. Jake had a great career in college as a footballer, and enjoyed himself on the social and academic side. Unlike many players, Jake was grateful for his experience in college and cherished it as a footballer and as a human. After college, Jake got some interest from teams in the US, but after taking a trip to Israel the previous summer and playing in the Maccabi Games, Jake got a direct offer from Maccabi Netanya in the Israeli Premier League. Without hesitation, Jake took the offer, and so his career began in Israel. During his first season with Netanya, Jake grew a lot as a footballer and a person. He found it a combination of difficult and exciting to be out of his home country and out of his comfort zone. After spending some time at Netanya, he signed a loan deal with Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem of the Liga Leumit (second tier). After a solid season, he signed an official deal with Hapoel Afula, where he is currently playing. Jake points out many times in the interview that you need a balance of 'professionalism,' being strict and disciplined, but also being able to enjoy your life with friends and family. On his off time, Jake likes to read books (he recommends 'Think & Grow Rich' by Napoleon Hill), stretch, take walks on the beach and hang out with friends and family on his off time. If you would like to get in touch with Jake, ask him some questions and ask his opinion on things, reach out to him on Instagram or Twitter @jroz12.