Manuel Meraz
Associate I, Coach-Mentor Training
![Kids play on the new LEGO mini-pitch in Albuquerque, NM](https://ussoccerfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NMAL824-1000x690.jpg")
Let soccer do what soccer does.
Together, we can give millions of kids from underserved communities safe places to grow, thrive and build confidence for life.
![Manuel Meraz headshot](https://ussoccerfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/manny1.png")
Manuel joined the U.S Soccer Foundation in January 2022 as a Program Associate. Prior to joining the Foundation, Manuel served as a legal assistant at Kolko & Casey, P.C. As a native Spanish speaker, he assisted immigration attorneys with family based and removal defense immigration cases for predominantly Hispanic communities. His other experience includes volunteering for the Southern Poverty Law Center and assisting with the Southern Immigrant Freedom Initiative, as well as serving as an assistant coach for the Kent Denver Men’s Varsity Soccer team.
Manuel graduated from Colorado College with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a double minor in political science and French. At Colorado College, Manuel played Division III Men’s Soccer and worked closely with the Athletics Marketing Department. Manuel was born and raised in Denver and is a lifelong fan of all Denver based teams, in addition to his support of Manchester City. Outside of work, you will likely find Manuel watching sports, hanging out with family and friends, or attending live concerts.