NVC Student Marco Manzo Signs With CSU Bakersfield To Play Soccer

Press release from Napa Valley College:

April 12, 2022

Napa Valley College soccer standout Marco Manzo was full of joy and gratitude Thursday as the signed a letter of intent to make official his transfer to California State University Bakersfield, where he’ll play for the NCAA Division I Roadrunners.

“I can’t be thankful enough for all the resources and assistance I have received at NVC from my professors, counselors, coaches, and the whole athletic department,” said the 2018 Vintage High graduate, who was the Napa County Player of the Year as a junior.

The Roadrunners, who participate in the NCAA Division I Big West Conference, will welcome the attacking midfielder and communication studies major in August.

“I’m excited to plan my move and all that comes with adjusting. Time management will be key to being successful. You want to spend as much time as possible enjoying the sport you love but you must handle business first to do so.”

He thanked NVC head coach Rogelio Ochoa, the 2019 and 2021 Bay Valley Conference Coach of the Year who has guided the Storm to BVC titles in all four of his years at the helm. Manzo is the sixth signee for Ochoa, whose priority has always been seeing his players win in the classroom.“Coach Rogelio has done a great job at being a role model for all of us and making sure we understand the importance of performance in school,” Manzo said.

Since taking the reins of the program in 2017, Ochoa has established a successful culture both on the pitch and in the classroom. His reputation for winning, getting his players signed, and the strong bond with every player he has managed are factors that have made the local institution a major option of interest for many who desire to take their academics and soccer to the next level.

“We try to teach and lead by example the importance of time management, proper communication and listening to your body and mind,” Ochoa explained. “Balance is key to any facet of life. However, when it comes to the classroom, it’s important to know yourself and know what kind of student you are. Knowing how you study best, where you struggle and your needs are in the classroom are important.

“Marco has grown dramatically. He has always had vision and goal to play D-I and beyond, so we sat down and made a plan early on. His hard work and dedication opened up opportunities to play in for a variety of colleges. He got numerous offers to play, but decided to play in a competitive conference, the Big West. This will propel him to continue growing and reach his goal of playing professionally one day.”

Manzo is accustomed to balancing his time. He is also a key player for amateur soccer club Napa Valley 1839 FC under the guidance of Mark Corbett, who is also the NVC women’s head coach.

This press release was produced by Napa Valley College. The views expressed here are the author’s own.