Christopher Newport senior men’s soccer goalkeeper Nolan Mann has a deep love for the sport of soccer. He’s been playing the sport nearly his whole life, considers his high school soccer coach as one of the most influential people in his life, closely follows the English Premiere League, and would love to have dinner with legendary soccer manage Sir Alex Ferguson. Mann and the Captains begin their quest for a repeat CAC title this Saturday as they open up the CAC Tournament at Mary Washington. INTRODUCING … Nolan Mann.

Briefly, what is your background in the sport you play?   
I’ve been playing soccer since I was four years old. Being from Lynchburg, Va., I went to a very small private school and graduated in a class of just 18 people.

What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline?  
I am majoring in Finance. It applies to every business and influences nearly every aspect of the world.

What is your favorite spot on campus?
Captains Field – that’s where I feel most at home. Especially for a Saturday night game!

Outside of your home and campus, where is your favorite place visit?
The beach. The beach is one of the reasons I chose to come to CNU, because it is so close. Specifically, I really love Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks.

Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in (on campus or off campus)?  
I work at a local BBQ restaurant as a server.

Briefly describe the most memorable experience during your collegiate athletic career. 
Making a trip to the NCAA Elite Eight last season – it was a very proud moment for our team.
 
Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life?
My high school soccer coach. He made me hate losing more than anything. He was competitive, but also a great person.

What is the most important societal issue facing college students?
The fact that society tells us we have to go to college in order to be anything. I think this is unfortunate, because it locks people into such a structured lifestyle.

If you could change any one item in the world (in your personal life, school, community, amateur or professional sports, national/international issue, etc.), what would it be, why, and how would you do it? 
I’m not in favor of awarding participation trophies for everything. I think there are good lessons to be learned in both winning and losing.

What is your favorite form of entertainment?
English Premier League soccer. There is really nothing quite like it: fast-paced, and aggressive soccer.

If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be? 
I would tell them to work their butts off in everything they do. Strive to be the best, no matter what activity you are doing.

Outside of the CAC, who or what is your favorite sports person or team?
My favorite team is Everton and my favorite athlete is Gianluigi Buffon. He is consistent, professional, and, in my opinion, the best to ever play the position.

Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with?
1. Sir Alex Ferguson – the best soccer manager of all time.
2. John Wayne – no explanation needed.
3. Michael Jordan – the most competitive person I have ever seen. He embodies the winning attitude.