Manny Ismaili

Who are you?

Hello, my name is Manouchehr Ismaili. My friends, family and coworkers call me Manny.

I live in Calgary with my wife Faye, our son Keiyan and daughter Bita.

I was born in Iran and moved to Canada in 1995. I am an IT consultant currently working at Graycon Group providing IT support for over 250 clients from different sectors.

How did you get involved with soccer?

I started playing soccer when I was very young and never stopped playing until a few years ago.

When my son was 4 years old I enrolled him in soccer and I have been with him at every practice and game and enjoyed every moment of it.

I enrolled my 5-year-old daughter in soccer when she was 4 years old and she loves running around, chasing the ball, meeting new friends, and having fun.

I met Coach Guillaume and his family last year. I was impressed by coach’s humble personality and impressed with his soccer skills, his love for children, children’s success and instantly became a Spartan.

What does being a Spartan mean to you?

Being a Spartan to me means, being self-disciplined, believing in achieving the best result, commitment towards achieving personal goals, passion for others, being a team player, positive attitude and never quit until the end.

What is your favorite soccer memory?

My favorite soccer memory goes back to when I played soccer in Iran. In the city I lived in, many people did not have cars back then. We used to run on foot to different parts of the city or ride on bikes to play matches.

What is your favorite soccer club?

It is hard for me to pick a favorite club. I love soccer and enjoy watching it.

If I were to pick a favorite club, I would pick Manchester United club and for national team, I would pick Brazil.

Who is your favorite soccer player?

I admire great players like Diego Maradona, David Beckham, Ronaldinho, and Ronaldo Luis Lima, Lionel Messi, and many more.

Who is your favorite soccer coach?

I admire Sir Alex Ferguson and José Mourinho as great coaches.