When Manolo Ferreres first stepped onto Butler’s campus, he carried more than a suitcase and a soccer ball – he carried a dream.
Growing up in Deltebre, Catalonia, Spain, he had already built a life steeped in discipline and ambition, balancing his studies in economics with his passion for soccer. Moving to the United States meant stepping into a world that was entirely new: a different culture, different people, and new expectations. “At the beginning, it was kind of difficult,” he recalled. “Everything was new. But over time, people here made it easier. The professors, the classmates – they were always willing to help and guide me.”
Choosing the Lacy School of Business wasn’t just about academics. For the senior economics major, Butler offered the chance to grow as a student, as an athlete, and as a future professional. “I saw the opportunity to step up my career,” he said. “To combine my studies in economics with soccer, while learning in an environment that pushed me to be my best.”
Manolo’s journey was shaped not only by those around him but also by the international perspective he brought to campus. Adapting to a new country meant embracing change while staying connected to his roots. “I realized it was important to bring your own knowledge, keep your mind sharp, and adapt to your environment,” the center-back said.
This mindset translated seamlessly to his entrepreneurial work with ESUS Soccer Company, an international company he co-founded while still a student. The company’s mission is to open doors for international players, helping them secure U.S. college soccer scholarships while combining athletic excellence with academic achievement. Through ESUS, Manolo connects young athletes with top NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA programs, matching them with opportunities that align with their skills, ambitions, and long-term goals.
“It’s about more than soccer,” he explained. “We’re helping players grow as athletes, students, and people. They improve their game, earn a degree, and experience a new culture. It’s a chance to reach their full potential on and off the field.”
ESUS also provides an elite program in Spain, where players train and compete with professional and semi-professional clubs over a 10-month season, participating in more than 35 official matches and training multiple times per week.
Recently, the company acquired an international tournament in Manolo’s hometown, giving players from around the world the chance to compete and connect within the Spanish soccer culture. “We’re creating opportunities for players to grow, to learn, and to succeed,” he said. “It’s about helping them find their path, just like Butler helped me find mine.”
The lessons Manolo has learned at LSB have been instrumental in building his business. Classes focused on communication, presentations, and practical problem-solving have helped him refine his English, convey ideas clearly, and sell his vision to others.
Balancing rigorous coursework, soccer, and entrepreneurship requires discipline and focus, but Manolo thrives on it. His days are meticulously planned, from early morning soccer practice to classes, then to managing ESUS, and finally evening study sessions. “It’s a lot, but every moment counts. You learn to focus on what’s in front of you and give it your best.”
Despite his busy schedule, Manolo finds balance through music and creativity. He writes and performs songs, plays guitar, and enjoys spending time with friends – activities that recharge him and spark new ideas. These moments of personal expression mirror the creativity he brings to both his studies and his business endeavors.
Manolo’s journey at LSB and with ESUS illustrates a powerful truth: growth happens at the intersection of challenge, curiosity, and action. He encourages others to take risks, follow their ambitions, and embrace the unknown.
“If you have an idea or a dream, you have to take the leap,” he said. “Start, learning along the way, and keep improving. You’ll never know what you can achieve until you try.”
