Picture by Lao Football Federation

Picture by AV Sports Photography

Picture by AV Sports Photography

Michael Vang

I'm Michael Vang, the first Hmong professional soccer player in the United States, born and raised in Saint Paul, MN. From attending U.S. National Team camps to graduating from Shattuck St. Mary’s High School, my journey was unconventional—I bypassed college to play in Portugal for a year and a half. At just 19, I signed my first professional contract with Forward Madison FC in the USL League One, where I made a significant impact over two seasons.

In 2022, I joined Columbus Crew 2 in the MLSNEXTPRO, winning the championship that year, before moving to Portland Timbers 2 in 2023. March 2023 marked a pivotal moment with my first call-up to the Laos National Team for the "3 Nations Cup," followed by competing in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Round 1 against Nepal later that year. In 2024, I signed with Miami FC in the USL Championship.

Driven by a passion for giving back, I am dedicated to sharing my knowledge and experiences to empower aspiring athletes in our community.

Brian Vang

I was born and raised in Saint Paul, MN, where I began my soccer journey with Saint Paul United during my youth career. In high school, I transitioned to Minnesota Thunder Academy, competing in the U.S. Development Academy (now MLS NEXT). Securing an athletic scholarship, I played Division 1 soccer at UW-Green Bay, where I was a consistent starter throughout all four years, culminating in a conference league victory in 2019.

During the summer of 2018, I gained valuable experience playing for the USL League Two team, Western Mass Pioneer. Upon graduating from college, I signed my first professional contract with Michigan Stars FC of NISA in 2020. Unfortunately, my professional career was cut short due to a knee injury after two seasons with Michigan Stars FC.

Now, I've transitioned into coaching youth soccer at Manitou FC, where I continue to share my passion and knowledge of the game.

Tay Vang

Arriving in France as a refugee from Laos in 1978, I discovered my passion for soccer. Growing up in France, I played the sport from my youth through adulthood. In the early 1990s, I immigrated to the US. In 2005, I founded Saint Paul United Youth Soccer Club to introduce the game to my children and their peers.

By 2014, I assumed the roles of coach and technical director at Minnesota Thunder Academy East (MTA). In 2018, I transitioned to MN Eclipse, continuing in these roles. Today, I coach at Manitou FC. Over my 19 years in coaching, I've won numerous local tournaments and leagues. Yet, my greatest joy has been guiding many players to play in Division 1 colleges and professional soccer.