1999 Greater Flint African American Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
Category: Wrestling
Manuel moved to Flint as a junior from New Port, Arkansas. He attended Northern for two years and joined the wrestling team. Although small in stature, Manuel was known for his strength. Most of his teammates will tell you that he was a strong and fearless competitor. Manuel won the Michigan Invitational Meet and was the only Northern wrestler to go undefeated for two consecutive years. He won the City Championship against Flint Central and was the captain of the wrestling team his senior year.
After High School Manuel attended Central Michigan University. One year he finished third in the Interstate Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Manuel won 15 and lost 2 in the 1960 season. Also in 1960, at 115 pounds, he won the title. Manuel also won the Wheatland Invitation and as his team’s Most Valuable player reached the NALA Meet but lost in the first round. In 1961, Manuel had a record of 5-0-1 and won 15 consecutive dual matches from 1958-60.
Manuel, you have made your mark in Flint’s sports history.
