• Royce Fellowship
Michael
Manella

Concentration 

History of Art and Architecture

Award Year 

2011
Good or Great: Youth Soccer Development and the Student-Athlete

Faculty Sponsor: Patrick Laughlin

In an effort to uncover what it takes to become a professional footballer, Michael traveled to Brazil and Spain to film a documentary about youth soccer development. Michael conducted interviews with coaches and players from top-level clubs and street soccer games to gain an understanding of the relationship between culture, education, player development, and professional dreams. Through this opportunity Michael has gained a unique perspective of the cultural significance of soccer, and how the value of academics ties to athletic futures.

Mike is a business analyst for the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC). He works on business development and strategic initiatives. He is currently pursuing an MS in Sports Management at Columbia University.