Dreaming big can be daunting, especially because one does not necessarily know what the future holds. But rising soccer player Michael Gianino believes not trying is scarier than failing. So, with nothing up his sleeves but his dream of someday cementing his name in the soccer industry, Michael ventured to different parts of the world and eventually played in Europe, an opportunity often unheard of among American soccer players. Not only did his hard work equip him with all the necessary skills a promising soccer player should have, but his adventures also allowed him to broaden his community and make meaningful relationships with soccer players, freestylers, content creators, and influencers from all walks of life.
Michael grew up in Staten Island, New York. Before sealing the deal to play soccer in Europe, he was selected by FIGC coach and current manager of Inter Femminile, Attilio Sorbie, as one of the final 16 among the 800 American and Canadian soccer players who tried out to compete against the Italian National Team on an all-expense paid venture in 2016 as part of Puma’s Il Viaggio program.
After scoring 72 goals and 54 assists collectively in his four high school seasons, Michael was awarded by many renowned soccer organizations and events, including the 2017 NYC Mayor’s Cup All-Star Game, the CHSAA All-League Award, and the Staten Island Advance All-Star. He was also nominated as Best Offensive Player on Staten Island four times and Staten Island Advance Player of the Week many times. Michael was also the 2017 CHSAA Undefeated City Champion and was selected for the New Jersey Olympic Development Program Squad.
He played for two seasons of NCAA Division 1 soccer at Long Island University but dropped out of the team during the pandemic, deciding to expand his horizons by signing a contract with a professional soccer club in Spain called CD Leganes. Today, he trains with another team in RFEF Tercera Division in Madrid and is committed to playing in the upcoming USL2 league this summer for his old club, NJ Copa FC.
With his success and career today, traveling the world while playing his favorite sport, Michael aims to inspire the younger generation of aspiring athletes to reach their dreams. He remembers how he struggled to get to where he is today, emphasizing that he can relate to the kids constantly being told they are not good enough for the big leagues. He wants to show them that he is living that dream and it is a reachable goal, as long as one is willing to put in the effort needed to get the job done.
“I want to inspire kids to believe in themselves, especially when it comes to soccer. They need to know that with a dream and property work ethic, anything is possible,” the athlete explained. “After being told my whole life that I was too small or too slow, I was determined to prove everybody wrong. I always believed in my ability and potential, in addition to God’s plan for me. I know so many aspiring soccer players dealing with so many struggles, especially with underlying corruption within the game itself. I’ve seen so many players give up when they were more than good enough to play at the next level. I want kids to know to never give up on their dreams because they are possible,” Michael added.
