Michael L. Manzo ’92

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved and talented friend, Michael. He was an exceptional scholar and a gifted athlete. His distinguished athletic career began in high school at the Gilman School in Baltimore, Md. A natural leader and team quarterback, Michael was elected co-captain of the Gilman Greyhounds football team winning MSA titles in 1986 and 1987.

His focus, dedication, and love for all sports led Michael to become an accomplished tennis player, tennis coach, skier, and golfer. He brought an infectious joy to all his athletic pursuits. His teammates remember an inspired leader with a contagious smile and quick wit, who was always generous with words of encouragement and praise. As tough as he was in competition, he was equally as loving, considerate, and selfless. His positive spirit was evident well beyond the athletic fields. He was a friend to all, welcoming and charitable, always going to the extra mile to help those less fortunate than he.

Of all his athletic endeavors, Michael was most passionate about lacrosse. He was co-captain of Gilman’s lacrosse team, which has been ranked #1 in the USA in past seasons. When Michael was recruited to the Princeton lacrosse team by Coach Tierney, it was a dream come true for him. Recognized as one of the premier face-off specialists in the nation, Michael was excited and honored to share his talents with the Princeton team. Under Coach Tierney’s guidance, the Tigers gave Princeton its first NCAA lacrosse title in Michael’s graduating year. Unfortunately, Michael was sidelined earlier due to injury, but he was nevertheless proud and thrilled to be a part of that storied history.

Michael cherished his time at Princeton with his friends, teammates, coaches, and professors, and often spoke fondly of the many ways Princeton enriched his life.

Michael was the loving son of Anne Marie B. Manzo and Louis V. Manzo, both of Baltimore, Md.; dearest brother of three siblings, Mark Benedict Manzo of Ruxton, Md., Karen Manzo Auwaerter and her husband, Dr. Paul Auwaerter, of Lutherville, Md., and Kathleen Manzo Campanella and her husband, John, of Chevy Chase, Md.; and devoted uncle of Alec, Ben, Caitlyn, and Jack. The class extends its heartfelt condolences.

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