Madden Iamaleava, a 19-year-old quarterback from Long Beach, California, is gaining recognition in football after choosing Arkansas over UCLA while honoring his family legacy.
At the center of his journey are his parents, Marleinna and Nicholaus Sr. (Nic) Iamaleava. Their strength, values, and love have helped shape Madden into the promising star he is today.
Madden was born in Long Beach, California, to Marleinna and Nicholaus Sr. Iamaleava, who raised him and his seven siblings in a household grounded in Samoan values.
Hard work, discipline, and community are pillars of their family, established from a young age. These principles have guided Madden both on the football field and in life.
The Iamaleava family takes pride in their Samoan heritage, which gives them strength.
Their culture highlights resilience and togetherness, helping them overcome successes and difficulties.
Madden’s parents assured their children grew up with a strong sense of identity, which shines through in his competitive spirit and dedication.
The Iamaleava Household Is Busy, With Eight Siblings Who Keep Things Lively
Marleinna Iamaleava is the heart of the family, a mother of eight who has faced challenges with incredible grace.
In 2020, she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer, a battle that shook the Iamaleava family.
The Long Beach community came together to raise funds for Marleinna’s treatment. Their support showed how much the family means to those around them.
Through determination and support, Marleinna fought her way to recovery.
By 2023, she was strong enough to launch The Nico8 Foundation alongside her son, Nico, Madden’s older brother, and a quarterback for the Tennessee Volunteers.
The non-profit organization is dedicated to breast cancer research and awareness, supporting special needs families, underserved youth, and other charitable causes.
Marleinna’s journey from cancer survivor to advocate powerfully influences Madden, showing him the importance of giving back.
Marleinna supports Madden as a mother. She encourages him in his football career and personal growth.
Her warmth and strength have created a home where Madden and his siblings feel supported to chase their dreams.
Whereas Father Nic, short for Nicholaus Sr., plays a major role in Madden’s life as his father and coach.
Nic, a David Starr Jordan High School graduate from North Long Beach, has deep roots in the local sports community.
He serves as an assistant coach at Warren High School, where Madden plays, and is a well-known name in Long Beach’s vibrant volleyball scene.
Nic’s athletic legacy traces back to his father, a rugby player, and he passed that passion for sports down to his children.
Nic’s coaching style is tough but fair, highlighting discipline and hard work.
For Madden, growing up under his father’s guidance meant learning to push through challenges and stay focused.
Nic’s experience as an athlete and coach has been instrumental in shaping Madden’s skills as a quarterback.
Nic has been by Madden’s side every step of the way, from refining his throwing technique to teaching him how to read defenses.
Madden is the younger brother of Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback for the Tennessee Volunteers and a rising star in college football.
The brothers share a close bond, forged through years of playing sports and pushing each other to improve.
Madden spent his early high school years backing up Nico at Warren High School, learning from his brother’s leadership and skill.
While Nico and Madden have taken the spotlight in football, their siblings are equally talented and driven.
The family’s competitive spirit is balanced by love and support, creating an environment where everyone cheers for each other’s success.
Madden Is A 6’3″ Quarterback With A Strong Arm And Good Running Ability
His junior season at Warren High School was a breakout year. He led the Bears to an 11-3 record and earned the Gateway League’s Co-Offensive Player of the Year award.
Despite missing one game due to injury, Madden’s performance showed he’s ready for the next level.
Madden’s high school career hasn’t been without challenges. Three games into his senior season, he transferred from Long Beach Poly High School to Warren High School alongside his top wide receiver.
The bold move paid off, allowing Madden to shine in a system that suited his skills.
He can adjust and succeed under pressure, which shows the resilience he learned from his parents.
Before his junior year, Madden was a backup to his brother, Nico.
As a freshman in 2021, he saw limited action but stepped up in a playoff game against Corona Del Mar, completing 5 of 10 passes for 42 yards.
In 2022, he appeared in 10 games, starting one against Culver City. He threw for 231 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception in a 54-20 win.
His sophomore stats included 31 of 58 passes completed for 675 yards, 10 touchdowns, and one interception, plus 62 rushing yards.
Madden’s growth as a quarterback is evident in his poise, accuracy, and maturity.
While he doesn’t run often, his mobility allows him to extend plays and make smart decisions under pressure. His competitive nature and toughness make him a natural leader on the field.
Like his brother, Nico, Madden is a two-sport athlete, excelling in football and volleyball.
His volleyball skills have made him a standout on the club scene, showcasing his athletic versatility.
While volleyball is a passion, Madden’s future lies in football. His talent and work ethic have earned him early scholarship offers and national attention.
As Madden prepares to join Arkansas, he carries his dreams and the hopes of his family and community.
His parents’ guidance, his mother’s courage, and his father’s coaching have prepared him for the challenges ahead.
\Whether he’s throwing a touchdown pass or spiking a volleyball, Madden Iamaleava is a young man driven by family, faith, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
