Congrats to Isabella Manning on winning our November 2023 UCHealth Player of the Month award!
Isabella plays as a goalkeeper for our Rapids 09G Castle Rock Burgundy team, where her teammates and coaches know her to be a relentless advocate for self-improvement and commitment on the pitch. She dedicates much of her life to soccer and strengthens her game at regular practice and goalie practice (often on the same night!). This summer, she attended multiple goalie camps, as well as her school’s morning and afternoon practice sessions to effectively prepare for the upcoming season. Isabella shows a true love for soccer, and she is determined to reach a higher level of play. Off the field, Isabella is a member of her church’s youth group, volunteers for children’s ministries, and participates in school theater. She is also a member of the National Junior Honors Society.
This December, Isabella will be presented with a plaque and a gift card to acknowledge her achievements. We spoke with Isabella to learn a bit more about her. Check out the full interview below!
What influence has soccer had in your life?
Soccer has been such a big part of my life since I was little. It’s taught me that if I work hard and put in the effort, then I can achieve the goals I set. Being a keeper has also taught me to keep calm and have a clear mind on the field and in real life.
Why do you believe that you were nominated for this award?
I believe I was nominated for this award because I have put so much effort into growing my skills and developing into a better player for my team.
What do you enjoy most about playing for Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club?
I have so many opportunities. I love my team and all of my coaches. I also love that I get to do keeper-specific training each week, to better prepare myself for each upcoming game.
What soccer accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m really proud of how my team and I played in the Rapids Classic Tournament. We played our hardest and were finalists in the end.
What academic achievement are you most proud of?
I’ve maintained straight A’s my first year of high school!
How do you think your teammates would describe you?
The goalie-just kidding. I think they would say I have a good sense of humor, I’m encouraging and focused.
What is something that shows your exemplary character, commitment to sportsmanship, community involvement, etc..?
I’ve volunteered in children’s ministry at my Church. I was also a student mentor at school for the younger grades. On the field, I make sure to encourage my friends and teammates when they do something well, and try to keep the positive attitude.
What’s your favorite soccer player and team?
Cristiano Ronaldo (player), Team- Liverpool
What do you hope to pursue in the near future?
I want to work my way to Varsity in high school, and would love to have the opportunity to play soccer in college, especially at University of Tennessee, Knoxville or CU Boulder.
Who inspires you and why? This can be someone famous or someone you know personally!
I’m inspired by my goalkeeper coach, Sean Bieker. At first, he was terrifying, but what I love is that he pushes me outside my comfort zone. He’s helped me become a stronger, faster, more focused player. He’s taught me most of the stuff I know about goalkeeping. Also- Taylor Swift.
What else do you enjoy outside of playing for CRYSC?
I love hanging out with friends and family, watching horror movies and traveling.
Since 2018, CRYSC and UCHealth + CU Orthopedics and Sports Medicine have worked together in an effort to grow the safety and health resources that are available for Rapids Youth players and members.
As our partnership strengthens with UCHealth, we want to work together to highlight the amazing players within the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club with a monthly ‘Player of the Month’. Check out the criteria and nominate any players that deserve to be highlighted by UCHealth and CRYSC on the UCHealth Player of the Month page.
