Marcus Mariota and Kiyomi Cook: A Heartwarming Journey of Love, Family, and Success
Marcus Mariota and his wife, Kiyomi Cook, fell in love during their time at the University of Oregon From college sweethearts to now proud parents, their relationship has blossomed over the years Discover the beautiful journey of their love story in the Netflix docuseries, 'Quarterback'
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NFL star Marcus Mariota married his college sweetheart, Kiyomi Cook, in July 2021.
The couple, who first crossed paths at the University of Oregon in 2014, have offered glimpses into their relationship through the official Instagram account of Mariota's nonprofit organization, Motiv8. This organization focuses on empowering young individuals through academic and athletic pursuits. Welcoming their daughter, Makaia, in December 2022, Mariota and Cook continue to embark on their journey together.
Keep scrolling for a look at Mariota and Cook’s relationship timeline:
2014
The duo met at the University of Oregon where Mariota played for the football team and Cook played for the women’s soccer team.
2015
Mariota and Cook were spotted walking hand in hand while arriving at an April NFL Draft party in Honolulu, Hawaii.
2016
Mariota and the pair contributed to the construction of a Habitat for Humanity home in their hometown of Nashville. "Being involved in the community is important to me, and this volunteer project provides a meaningful opportunity," Mariota expressed to The Tennessean regarding the April initiative. With some leisure time during the offseason, this endeavor is a valuable way to utilize it. Mariota expressed his satisfaction in meeting the family and emphasized the significance of providing them with a secure shelter. He expressed his joy in being able to contribute to this cause.
2020
Mariota and Cook announced their engagement via their Instagram account for their two dogs, Jaqua and Swoosh.
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Courtesy of Rob DeMello/Instagram: Mom and dad have taken their relationship to the next level," they wrote alongside a picture of them beaming happily, accompanied by their beloved furry friends. As reported by local news outlet Khon2, the athlete proposed in front of their loved ones and close friends in Eugene, Oregon."
2021
The college sweethearts exchanged vows in Oahu, Hawaii, in July. Mariota’s former Tennessee Titans teammate Logan Ryan shared a series of Instagram snaps from the occasion.
"Last night, there was a wedding ceremony for the Hawaiian Royalty! We extend our gratitude to Kiyomi and Marcus for inviting us to be a part of their special day. Wishing the both of you nothing but everlasting happiness. MAHALO," Ryan shared in the post.
Both Mariota and Cook have ancestral ties to Hawaii. Mariota was born in Honolulu, and Cook's parents were raised in the beautiful islands of Hawaii.
2022
Mariota and Cook became parents with the birth of their daughter, Makaia, in December.
Mariota's nonprofit organization announced the birth of their daughter, Makaia Kei Mariota, on December 7th, 2022, through an Instagram post featuring a photo of the trio. They proudly declared Mariota as a #girldad.
Just 24 hours after this significant event, the Atlanta Falcons made the decision to bench Mariota and replace him with rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder. Further unfortunate circumstances followed as Mariota was later placed on injured reserve due to an ongoing knee injury.
2023
The couple both took part in the Netflix docuseries Quarterback, which premiered on July 12. The series chronicles Mariota, along with his fellow quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Patrick Mahomes. Throughout the entire 2022 NFL season, all three players wore microphones during every game. This season also marked Mariota's debut and final year of playing for the Falcons. However, in February 2023, the team decided to release Mariota. Shortly after, in March 2023, he signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.
In a trailer for the docuseries, Cook said of marrying a quarterback, “I know what I signed up for.”
