Dennis Denning is undoubtedly a fine coach, but he might not even be the best one in St. Paul. After guiding St. Paul Academy to its then-record fourth state boys’ soccer championship in 1994, Manuel “Buzz” Lagos said “yes” to the pros by creating, from the proverbial ether, his own professional team. The Minnesota Thunder, which began as an amateur club and, early on, had to pay high-level opponents to visit Minnesota, turned pro in 1995 and rapidly grew into a national powerhouse by developing local talent to its full potential. While the Thunder can only claim second-division status beneath top-tier Major League Soccer, Minnesota consistently ranks among the A-league’s best teams, sandwiching two finals appearances around its 1999 national championship. Former players (and Minnesota natives) Leo Cullen, Manny Lagos, and Tom Presthus currently play in MLS, and the Thunder’s most famous alum, SPA grad Tony Sanneh, led the U.S. national team to its historic quarterfinal appearance at the 2002 World Cup. But Lagos, a consummate teacher and tireless soccer promoter who reaches countless young players through clinics, camps, and other public appearances, didn’t sell out by going pro. In recent years, he has donated his modest coaching salary to the team, to help it avoid bankruptcy.
Dean Campbell, Minneapolis
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