Achieving their goals
Twin brothers Esteban Mariel ’09 and Manuel Mariel ’09 have introduced a new sport into the Dallas landscape.
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It didn’t take twin brothers Esteban and Manuel Mariel long after graduating with bachelor’s degrees in economics in 2009 to launch City Futsal in 2011. The former SMU soccer players – who transferred as sophomores from University of Maryland-Baltimore County – wanted to translate their athletic skills into their professional lives.
Futsal – not to be confused with soccer – features four players plus a goalie, a hard court and a smaller ball.
“Futsal isn’t just an alternative to soccer – it’s a vital supplement that enhances a player’s capabilities,” says Manuel. “The small-sided nature of the game sharpens quick decision-making, enhances agility, and develops precision in ball control and passing. We encourage players to engage in futsal not as a replacement for soccer, but as a strategic enhancement to their game.”
The Mariel brothers had already been teaching youth to play soccer but wanted to pursue a dedicated futsal program in the Dallas area. One permanent location soon turned into three – with an outdoor location at the Dallas Farmers Market. Most recently, they’ve opened fields in The Colony and have their sights on Richardson.
It’s a family affair for the Mariels, who share an alma mater with their mother, Solange Mariel ’01 and work alongside their sister, Ximena; younger brother, Felipe; and dad, Federico.
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I believe SMU shaped our mindset. We were challenged but we were also in an environment to try things, to ask questions and to get help.
– Esteban Mariel ’09
That passion for playing, for teaching other kids, being around the sport – that was our big thing.
– Manuel Mariel ’09
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