Hall of Fame
Manzer is one of the more decorated all-around threats in AU’s storied football history, suiting up as a wide receiver, free safety, and a return specialist for four seasons (2006-2009). He made an immediate impact as a first-year starter, leading the team with 53 catches for 678 yards and 10 touchdowns, the touchdowns setting an AU single-season record. He was named Rookie of the Year by the Empire 8 as well as the ECAC for his efforts.
He broke out again in 2008, setting single-season marks in receptions (69) and receiving yards (1,058), while tying his own mark with 10 touchdowns. Saving his best for last, the senior captain brought in a school-record 15 receiving touchdowns while also compiling five interceptions, returning two for touchdowns in the 2009 season. He was named the Empire 8 Conference Player of the Year and earned his first American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) All-America nod as the Saxons charged to the team’s first conference title since 1981, advancing to the NCAA Tournament.
Manzer graduated with nearly every receiving record at AU; he has five records that still stand to this day: career receiving yards (3,517), receiving yards in a season (1,058), career receptions (237), touchdown receptions (43), and longest interception return for a touchdown (98 yards vs. Rochester in 2009). He’s the only Saxon football player that is currently in the record book for both offense and defense.
Manzer graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from AU and embarked on a brief professional playing career, suiting up for an all-star season for the NEPA Miners of the Regional American Football League. His talents were noticed by the Canadian Football League, where he earned a tryout with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Manzer has also appeared on television, suiting up as a contestant on NBC’s Spartan Ultimate Team Challenge in 2016. He currently serves as a Youth Counselor for the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
