Manny Santiago

Full Name

Emanuel “Manny” Santiago

Birth and Background

• Born: September 10, 1985
• Birthplace: Cayey, Puerto Rico
• Hometown: Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
• Stance: Regular
• Height: 5 ft 7 in (170 cm)
• Weight: 150 lb (68 kg)
• Status: Global Professional Skateboarder
• Nickname: “Manny Slays All”

Overview

Manny Santiago is a Puerto Rican professional skateboarder who made history as the first Puerto Rican skateboarder to compete in Street League Skateboarding (SLS). Known for his infectious ear-to-ear smile, distinctive missing tooth, and endlessly positive demeanor, Santiago has become one of the most recognizable figures in professional street skateboarding.

Santiago’s career represents a remarkable journey from an underprivileged childhood in Massachusetts to becoming an international skateboarding ambassador for Puerto Rico. His technical switch stance abilities and competitive success, including two SLS Select Series championships in 2013, have established him as one of the most versatile street skaters of his generation.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Santiago is a dedicated philanthropist, vegan lifestyle advocate, and entrepreneur. He founded the “Prince of Puerto Rico” skateboarding contest series and SK8HOP distribution company, giving back to the communities that shaped his career.

Current Sponsors

• Jart Skateboards
• Ecko Unltd.
• Grizzly Griptape
• Diamond Supply Co.
• Krux Trucks
• Andale Bearings
• Rastaclat
• Black Plague Brewing

Discipline

Street skateboarding with emphasis on technical switch stance skating, competition performance, and video part production. Known for combining difficult technical combinations with consistent competitive results.

Significance

Santiago represents a groundbreaking figure for Puerto Rican and Latino representation in professional skateboarding. As the first Puerto Rican to qualify for Street League’s premier competitive series and to compete in the Olympic Games (Tokyo 2020), he has opened doors for future generations of skateboarders from Latin America and the Caribbean. His combination of competitive success, philanthropic work, and positive public persona has made him one of the most respected figures in contemporary skateboarding.

Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding

Childhood in Puerto Rico

Emanuel Santiago was born on September 10, 1985, in Cayey, Puerto Rico, a municipality located in the central mountain range of the island. Cayey is known as “La Ciudad de las Brumas” (The City of Mists) due to its location in the mountains, creating a unique environment for Santiago’s earliest years.

Move to Massachusetts

At a young age, Santiago’s family relocated from Puerto Rico to Lowell, Massachusetts, a working-class city located about 30 miles northwest of Boston. This transition marked a significant change in Santiago’s environment and would ultimately shape his path toward skateboarding.

Lowell, historically a mill town, presented both challenges and opportunities for young Santiago. The city had experienced economic difficulties, and growing up in an underprivileged environment, Santiago faced exposure to gang culture that was prevalent in the area during the 1990s.

Discovering Skateboarding

Santiago discovered skateboarding at the age of 14, finding in it an oasis from the difficult circumstances surrounding him. The local Boys & Girls Club near the Roberto Clemente Skate Park became his sanctuary and introduction to the sport that would transform his life.

In a 2012 interview with Vice Magazine, Santiago recalled the pivotal moment:

“Lowell ended up building some skate parks, and one happened to be near the Boys’ Club where I went. A few of my good friends started skating, so I tried it. The moment I stepped on a board I was hooked, and I haven’t stopped.”

This discovery came at a critical time in Santiago’s adolescence. While many of his peers were drawn into gang culture, Santiago found an alternative path through skateboarding. The sport provided not just recreation but a community, a creative outlet, and eventually a career.

Early Skateboarding Development

The Roberto Clemente Skate Park and the surrounding Lowell area provided the training ground for Santiago’s early development. Unlike skaters who grew up with perfect concrete parks and plazas, Santiago learned to skate on whatever terrain was available, developing the adaptability that would later serve him well in competitions and street skating.

In a 2014 interview with Ecko Unltd., Santiago reflected on how his upbringing shaped his character:

“Growing up in an underprivileged environment made me who I am today.”

The challenges of his early life instilled in Santiago a work ethic, resilience, and appreciation for opportunity that would become hallmarks of his professional career.

Educational Background

While specific details about Santiago’s formal education are limited, his focus on skateboarding from age 14 suggests that the sport became his primary pursuit during his teenage years. The combination of skateboarding and attending the Boys & Girls Club provided structure and positive influences during a critical developmental period.

The business skills Santiago would later demonstrate—building his own brand, organizing contests, and managing sponsor relationships—suggest either formal business education or extensive self-education through mentorship within the skateboarding industry.

Connection to Puerto Rican Heritage

Despite growing up in Massachusetts, Santiago maintained strong connections to his Puerto Rican heritage. This dual identity—Puerto Rican by birth, American by upbringing—would later become central to his professional identity. Santiago has consistently represented Puerto Rico in international competitions, choosing to compete under the Puerto Rican flag rather than the American flag.

This decision reflected both personal pride and a desire to inspire young skateboarders from Puerto Rico and the broader Latino community. Santiago recognized that representation matters, and by competing as a Puerto Rican, he could demonstrate that skaters from the island could reach the highest levels of professional skateboarding.

Early Influences

Santiago’s early skateboarding was influenced by the East Coast skate scene, particularly the technical street skating that characterized Philadelphia and Boston during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Videos and magazines provided exposure to professional skateboarding, establishing the standards and possibilities that Santiago would pursue.

The combination of East Coast technical influence and Puerto Rican cultural identity created a unique foundation for Santiago’s eventual professional style. He would later become known for combining technical difficulty with the positive, welcoming attitude that reflects both his personality and cultural background.

Transition to Amateur Competition

By his late teens, Santiago had progressed from local park skating to amateur competitions. His natural talent, combined with an intense work ethic developed through his challenging upbringing, allowed him to quickly rise through the amateur ranks. The same determination that helped him avoid gang culture now drove him to master increasingly difficult skateboarding tricks and techniques.

This period established the pattern that would define Santiago’s career: using skateboarding as a positive force, competing with joy and enthusiasm, and maintaining connection to his roots while pursuing international success.

Professional Career

Amateur Competition Success

Before turning professional, Santiago established himself as one of the most promising amateur skateboarders in the United States. His early competition record hinted at the success that would follow:

Damn Am Minneapolis (2006)

Santiago’s breakthrough came at the 2006 Damn Am Contest in Minneapolis, Minnesota, one of the most prestigious amateur skateboarding competitions. He earned a “golden ticket” by placing 1st in qualifiers, advancing directly to the finals where he won 1st place overall. His winning tricks included: - Kickflip backside 50-50 - Bigspin backside boardslide - Varial heelflip backside boardslide

This victory established Santiago as an amateur to watch and demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure against top competition.

Zoo York AM Getting Paid Contest (2009)

Santiago continued his amateur success at the 2009 Zoo York AM Getting Paid Contest in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where he placed 2nd. His performance featured advanced technical tricks including: - Kickflip backside crooked grind - Laser heel - 360 shuvit lipslide

Crossroads Best Trick Victory

The pivotal moment in Santiago’s transition to professional status came at the Black Box Crossroads Best Trick Contest. Competing against established professional skateboarders including Nyjah Huston, Chris Cole, Torey Pudwill, and Ryan Sheckler, Santiago won 1st place in the Best Trick category.

This achievement was extraordinary—an amateur defeating some of the biggest names in professional skateboarding. The victory proved that Santiago’s skills were already at a professional level and led directly to his sponsorship offers and professional status.

Turning Professional (2010)

Santiago turned professional in 2010, marking the transition from promising amateur to established professional. His professional career began with a significant move: leaving Think Skateboards to have his first professional board graphic produced by AMMO Skateboards.

AMMO Skateboards, owned by professional skateboarder and industry personality Felix Arguelles, provided Santiago with his first pro model. This relationship established Santiago within the professional skateboarding community and provided the platform for his subsequent career development.

Dew Tour and Rookie Recognition (2011)

In 2011, Santiago’s professional career gained significant momentum when he won Alli Sport’s Ball Park Rookie of the Year at Dew Tour. This award recognized the highest-performing rookie across both skateboarding and BMX disciplines on the tour.

The award citation noted:

“When is being called a ‘rookie’ a good thing? When you’re called Ball Park’s Rookie of the Year. The highest tour rookie in both skateboarding and BMX.”

This recognition elevated Santiago’s profile within the industry and validated his potential as a future star in competitive skateboarding.

Street League Skateboarding (SLS) History

Breaking Barriers (2013)

Santiago made history in 2013 by becoming the first Puerto Rican skateboarder to qualify for Street League Skateboarding (SLS), the premier professional skateboarding competition series. This achievement was significant not just for Santiago personally but for Puerto Rican skateboarding as a whole, demonstrating that skaters from the island could compete at the highest level.

Select Series Championship (2013)

The 2013 season marked Santiago’s breakthrough in competitive skateboarding. He won two consecutive stops in the inaugural SLS Select Series:

SLS Brazil (2013) - 1st Place - Select Series - First major international SLS victory

SLS Barcelona (2013) - 1st Place - Select Series - Consecutive victory establishing dominance in the series

These back-to-back wins made Santiago the first ever Street League Skateboarding “Select Series Champion” and the first ever “Select Series Winner” to advance to the finals and podium in SLS history.

SLS Premier Series

Following his Select Series success, Santiago qualified for the SLS Premier Series, competing regularly against the world’s best street skateboarders including Nyjah Huston, Paul Rodriguez, Chris Cole, and Shane O’Neill. His consistent presence in SLS events established him as a mainstay of professional competitive skateboarding.

X Games Competition

In 2012, Santiago became the first Puerto Rican street skateboarder to place in the top three at the X Games, capturing 3rd place at the finals in Barcelona. This achievement further validated Puerto Rico’s potential in international skateboarding competition and added to Santiago’s growing list of historic firsts for his home country.

Olympic Participation (2020 Tokyo)

Santiago represented Puerto Rico in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021 due to COVID-19 postponement), competing in the inaugural Olympic skateboarding competition in the Men’s Street event. As skateboarding made its Olympic debut, Santiago was part of history.

Olympic Results: - Event: Men’s Street Skateboarding - Preliminary Round Score: 5.45 - Final Placement: 20th overall

While Santiago did not advance to the finals, his participation represented a watershed moment for Puerto Rican skateboarding and Latino representation in Olympic sports. Competing under the Puerto Rican flag on the world’s biggest stage, Santiago demonstrated that skateboarding had truly become a global sport.

Video Part Career

“9-10-11” (2011)

On his 26th birthday (September 10, 2011), Santiago released his landmark video part “9-10-11.” After four months of intensive filming and strategic teaser releases, the video became an internet sensation within the skateboarding community. The part showcased Santiago’s technical abilities and established his reputation for producing quality video content.

“Salt N’ Pepper” (with Dave Bachinsky)

Santiago collaborated with childhood friend and professional skateboarder Dave Bachinsky on a video project that featured street skating on the West Coast of the United States and in Puerto Rico. This project combined technical skateboarding with cultural documentation, showcasing spots in both mainland America and Santiago’s homeland.

“THIS IS 40” (2023)

Released in 2023, “THIS IS 40” documented Santiago’s continued progression and relevance in professional skateboarding even as he entered his 40s. The part demonstrated that technical skill and competitive drive need not diminish with age.

Brand Development: Manny Slays All (MSA)

Santiago has developed his personal brand “Manny Slays All” (MSA) into a recognized name in skateboarding culture. The brand features: - Hats and apparel - Stickers and accessories - The “MSA” logo featuring stylized letters - The signature machete logo (watermarked on all photos and videos)

MSA has collaborated with major brands including Rastaclat, Grizzly Griptape, Famous Stars and Straps, and Ecko Unltd., establishing Santiago’s credibility as both an athlete and entrepreneur.

SK8HOP Distribution and Retail

In 2012, Santiago launched SK8HOP, a skateboarding distribution company in Puerto Rico, with business partner Fico Rodriguez. The venture expanded in 2014 with the opening of the first SK8HOP skateboard shop in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

This business represents Santiago’s commitment to developing skateboarding infrastructure in Puerto Rico and providing opportunities for the next generation of Puerto Rican skateboarders.

Sponsorship Evolution

Santiago’s sponsor relationships have evolved throughout his career:

Early Career: - Think Skateboards (amateur) - AMMO Skateboards (first professional board)

Mid-Career: - Fortune Skateboards (long-term relationship) - Ecko Unltd. - Grizzly Griptape - Diamond Supply Co. - Krux Trucks - Andale Bearings

Current: - Jart Skateboards (joined professional team) - Previous sponsors continuing support

Competitive Longevity

Santiago has maintained professional status for over 15 years, an impressive achievement in an industry where careers are often short-lived. His continued participation in SLS events, Tampa Pro, and other major competitions into his late 30s demonstrates exceptional physical maintenance and competitive drive.

Recent competitive appearances include: - SLS Super Crown World Championship (2021, 2022) - SLS Tour events (Jacksonville, Seattle, Las Vegas, Chicago, Sydney 2022-2023) - Tampa Pro (2023)

Career Philosophy

Throughout his career, Santiago has maintained a distinctive approach combining competitive seriousness with personal warmth. His famous ear-to-ear smile and positive demeanor have made him a fan favorite, while his technical abilities and competitive results have earned respect from peers and industry professionals.

This combination—what might be called “competitive joy”—has defined Santiago’s professional identity and contributed to his longevity in the sport. Unlike some competitors who project intensity through aggression, Santiago demonstrates that world-class performance is compatible with positive attitude and sportsmanship.

Achievements and Records

Major Accomplishments

Manny Santiago’s list of achievements represents some of the most impressive accomplishments in their field. These milestones reflect years of dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Awards and Recognition

The honors and awards bestowed upon Manny Santiago reflect the high regard in which they are held by peers, critics, and fans alike. These recognitions span multiple organizations and categories.

Records and Statistics

Manny Santiago’s statistical achievements tell a compelling story of sustained excellence and breakthrough performances that have set new standards in their discipline.

Technique and Skating Style

Skating Stance

Manny Santiago skates in a regular stance, with his left foot positioned forward on the skateboard. While regular stance is common in skateboarding, Santiago has distinguished himself through exceptional proficiency in switch stance skating—performing tricks with his opposite foot forward as if he were goofy-footed.

Switch Stance Specialty

Santiago is widely recognized as one of the most proficient switch stance skaters in professional skateboarding. His ability to perform technically difficult tricks in both regular and switch stances with equal proficiency sets him apart from many competitors.

Switch Stancing Defined

Switch stance involves riding and performing tricks with the opposite foot forward from one’s natural stance. For Santiago (regular-footed), this means skating with his right foot forward. Switch skating requires: - Complete relearning of trick mechanics - Enhanced balance and coordination - Mental adaptation to opposite stance - Years of dedicated practice

Santiago’s Switch Proficiency

Santiago’s switch abilities include: - Switch flip tricks: Kickflips, heelflips, varial flips, and 360 flips in switch stance - Switch grinds: 50-50s, crooked grinds, smith grinds, and feeble grinds switch - Switch slides: Boardslides, lipslides, and nose slides in opposite stance - Switch manual combinations: Technical balancing tricks performed switch

Competitive Advantage

Santiago’s switch proficiency provides competitive advantages: - Ability to skate spots from multiple approaches - Expanded trick vocabulary for competition runs - Adaptability to different course layouts - Technical difficulty that impresses judges

Technical Street Skating

Ledge and Rail Skating

Santiago’s technical approach emphasizes ledge and rail skating, fundamental elements of street skateboarding:

Grind Variations: - 50-50 grinds (both trucks on obstacle) - Crooked grinds (front truck on top, board angled) - Smith grinds (back truck on top, front truck hanging) - Feeble grinds (front truck on top, back truck hanging) - Nose grinds (balancing on front truck) - Suski grinds (back truck on top, nose lifted)

Technical Combinations: - Flip in to grind to flip out - Nollie and switch variations of all grind tricks - Combination grinds across multiple obstacles - Grind to manual to grind sequences

Manual and Nose Manual Mastery

Manual tricks—balancing on either the front or back wheels without the other wheels touching—feature prominently in Santiago’s skating:

Manual Variations: - Long-distance manuals across flat ground - Manual to flip trick combinations - Nose manuals (balancing on front wheels) - Manual pad combinations - Manual to grind transitions

Stair and Gap Approaches

While primarily known for technical ledge work, Santiago’s skating includes stair sets and gaps: - Technical flip tricks down stairs - Switch stance stair skating - Gap combinations with technical landings

Competition Style

SLS Competition Approach

Santiago’s Street League competition style is characterized by:

Consistency: - High landing percentages - Strategic trick selection - Risk management during competition runs

Technical Difficulty: - Incorporation of switch stance tricks in runs - Combination sequences that maximize scoring potential - Utilization of entire course features

Adaptability: - Ability to adjust runs based on course layout - Quick recovery from missed tricks - Experience-based competition strategy

Scoring Strategy

Santiago’s competition runs typically emphasize: - Technicality: Complex trick combinations - Switch elements: Switch stance tricks that increase difficulty - Consistency: High make rates on attempted tricks - Course utilization: Use of multiple obstacles and features

Video Part Construction

Filming Approach

Santiago approaches video parts with attention to both technical achievement and viewer engagement:

Spot Selection: - Urban street spots with ledges, rails, and stairs - Unique or lesser-known locations - Combination of East Coast and Puerto Rican spots - Iconic skateboarding destinations

Trick Selection: - Mix of high-difficulty and stylish tricks - Switch stance highlights - Technical combinations that showcase control - “Hammer” tricks (high-impact, memorable moments)

Presentation: - Music selection complementing skating style - Clean filming and editing - Social media promotion and teaser campaigns

Notable Video Part Elements

“9-10-11” (2011): - Four-month filming period - Strategic teaser release campaign - Mix of East Coast and travel footage - Internet-optimized distribution

“THIS IS 40” (2023): - Demonstrated progression at age 40 - Technical difficulty maintained with age - Proof of career longevity

Equipment Preferences

Board Setup

Deck: - Professional model from current sponsor (Jart Skateboards) - Signature graphics featuring MSA branding - Standard street skateboarding dimensions

Trucks: - Krux Trucks (current sponsor) - Mid-height for technical street skating - Responsive turning for ledge and rail combinations

Wheels: - Street skating formula (99a-101a durometer) - Smaller size (50-54mm) for technical tricks - Flat spot resistant urethane

Bearings: - Andale Bearings (sponsor) - Professional-grade precision

Griptape: - Grizzly Griptape (sponsor) - Signature MSA collaborations

Shoe Selection

As an Ecko Unltd. sponsored athlete, Santiago wears Ecko footwear. His shoe preferences typically include: - Mid-top or high-top models for ankle support - Vulcanized soles for board feel - Durable suede or leather uppers - Classic or signature colorways

Physical Attributes

Body Type and Skating

Santiago’s physical characteristics influence his skating style: - Height: 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) - Average height provides good board control - Weight: 150 lb (68 kg) - Light enough for technical tricks, substantial enough for stability - Build: Athletic build supporting explosive pop and impact absorption

Physical Maintenance

Maintaining professional skateboarding performance into his late 30s and early 40s requires:

Injury Prevention: - Regular stretching and flexibility work - Strength training for joint stability - Proper warm-up routines before skating

Recovery: - Adequate rest between sessions - Ice and compression for inflammation - Professional medical treatment when needed

Nutrition: - Vegan diet (plant-based nutrition) - Adequate protein for muscle recovery - Hydration and proper fueling

Comparison to Contemporaries

Distinctive Elements

Santiago distinguishes himself from contemporaries through:

Switch Stance Proficiency: - Few skaters match his switch consistency - Regular incorporation of switch in competition runs - Technical switch combinations rarely attempted by others

Competitive Longevity: - Continued high-level performance into his 40s - Adaptation of style to physical changes - Experience advantage over younger competitors

Cultural Presentation: - Positive attitude and sportsmanship - Distinctive smile and personal branding - Connection to Puerto Rican heritage

Influences

Santiago’s style shows influence from: - East Coast technical street skating traditions - Puerto Rican skate culture - 1990s and 2000s technical progression - Contemporary competition format requirements

Training and Preparation

Competition Preparation

Santiago’s preparation for competitions includes: - Course inspection and strategy planning - Trick selection based on course features - Mental visualization of runs - Physical warm-up and preparation

Daily Training

Typical training elements: - Street skating sessions for trick refinement - Competition simulation runs - Switch stance practice - Video filming for part construction

Mental Approach

Santiago’s mental approach emphasizes: - Positive visualization - Confidence in switch abilities - Competition experience application - Enjoyment of the skating process

Evolution of Style

Early Career (2006-2010)

• Focus on establishing fundamentals
• Development of switch stance foundation
• Competition-oriented progression

Peak Competition Years (2011-2015)

• SLS championship performances
• Refinement of competition strategy
• Video part production alongside competition

Mature Career (2016-Present)

• Continued technical progression
• Adaptation to physical changes with age
• Mentorship and industry presence
• Sustained competitive relevance

This evolution demonstrates Santiago’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation, key factors in his remarkable career longevity.

Personal Life

Family and Relationships

Manny Santiago maintains a relatively private personal life compared to some professional skateboarders who extensively share personal details through social media. This privacy allows him to maintain boundaries between his professional identity and personal relationships.

While specific details about family members are kept private, Santiago has acknowledged the importance of family support in his development as a skateboarder. The move from Puerto Rico to Massachusetts was a family decision that shaped his upbringing, and his Puerto Rican heritage remains central to his identity.

Connection to Puerto Rico

Despite growing up primarily in Massachusetts, Santiago has maintained deep connections to his Puerto Rican roots throughout his life and career.

Dual Identity

Santiago embodies a dual identity—Puerto Rican by birth and heritage, American by upbringing and residence. This dual identity has become central to his professional brand and personal philosophy. He has consistently chosen to represent Puerto Rico in international competitions, including the Olympics, rather than competing for the United States.

Regular Returns to Puerto Rico

Santiago regularly returns to Puerto Rico for both professional and personal reasons: - Prince of Puerto Rico Contest: Annual return to organize and host the competition - SK8HOP Business: Regular visits to manage his distribution company and retail store - Family and Cultural Connection: Personal visits to maintain connections to his heritage

Puerto Rican Pride

Santiago’s Puerto Rican pride manifests in multiple ways: - Competing under the Puerto Rican flag internationally - Puerto Rican flag imagery in his branding - Advocacy for Puerto Rican skateboarding development - Philanthropic work focused on Puerto Rican communities

Vegan Lifestyle

Plant-Based Diet

Santiago is a committed vegan, following a plant-based diet that excludes all animal products including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. His veganism extends beyond diet to encompass broader lifestyle choices avoiding animal exploitation.

Vegan Advocacy

Santiago uses his platform as a professional athlete to advocate for veganism: - Social media posts about plant-based nutrition - Demonstration that high-level athletic performance is possible on a vegan diet - Partnerships with vegan-friendly brands - Representation of vegan athletes in skateboarding

Athletic Performance on Vegan Diet

Santiago’s sustained competitive performance into his 40s while maintaining a vegan diet challenges misconceptions about plant-based nutrition and athletic achievement. His career demonstrates that: - Adequate protein for muscle recovery is available from plant sources - Energy levels and endurance can be maintained without animal products - Injury recovery and inflammation management may benefit from plant-based eating - Long-term athletic longevity is compatible with veganism

Nutrition Approach

While specific details of Santiago’s daily nutrition are private, typical vegan athletic nutrition includes: - Plant-based protein sources (legumes, tofu, tempeh, seitan) - Whole grains for complex carbohydrates - Fruits and vegetables for vitamins and antioxidants - Nuts and seeds for healthy fats - Possible supplementation with B12, iron, and omega-3s

Massachusetts Roots

Lowell Connection

Santiago grew up in Lowell, Massachusetts, and maintains connection to his hometown: - Reference to Lowell in biographical materials - Potential continued relationships with childhood friends - Representation of East Coast skateboarding culture

Boys & Girls Club Impact

The local Boys & Girls Club in Lowell played a pivotal role in Santiago’s discovery of skateboarding. This experience shaped his commitment to providing similar opportunities for young people through his own philanthropic work.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

SK8HOP Distribution and Retail

Santiago’s business activities occupy significant time outside of skating:

Business Management: - Overseeing distribution operations in Puerto Rico - Managing relationships with international brands - Strategic planning for business growth

Retail Operations: - SK8HOP store in Mayaguez requires attention - Inventory management and purchasing decisions - Staff management and training

Manny Slays All (MSA) Brand

The MSA brand requires ongoing attention: - Product design and development - Collaboration negotiations with other brands - Marketing and social media management - Inventory and sales tracking

Social Media Presence

Instagram (@mannysantiago)

Santiago maintains an active Instagram presence where he shares: - Skateboarding clips and competition footage - Daily skateboarding lifestyle content - MSA brand promotions - Vegan lifestyle advocacy - Puerto Rican cultural content

Content Strategy

Santiago’s social media approach balances: - Professional skateboarding content - Personal brand promotion - Sponsored content obligations - Authentic personal expression - Community engagement

Audience Engagement

His positive demeanor and consistent posting have built a substantial following. Fans appreciate: - Daily updates on skateboarding activities - Behind-the-scenes competition content - Personal interactions and responses - Inspirational messaging about persistence and positivity

Interests Beyond Skateboarding

Fashion and Style

Santiago’s interest in fashion extends beyond skateboarding requirements: - Ecko Unltd. sponsorship reflects fashion orientation - Personal style development over career - MSA apparel line design - Attention to presentation in video parts and appearances

Music and Culture

While specific musical preferences are private, Santiago’s cultural positioning suggests engagement with: - Hip-hop culture (common in skateboarding) - Puerto Rican music and cultural traditions - Music selection for video parts

Travel and Exploration

Professional skateboarding requires extensive international travel, which Santiago has parlayed into broader cultural experiences: - Skate trips to global destinations - Cultural immersion in different countries - Documentation of travel through social media - Building international skateboarding community connections

Health and Wellness

Physical Maintenance

Maintaining professional skateboarding performance at age 40 requires dedicated health management:

Regular Exercise Beyond Skating: - Strength training for joint stability - Flexibility work and stretching routines - Cardiovascular fitness maintenance - Core strength development

Injury Prevention: - Proper warm-up before skating sessions - Protective gear when appropriate - Listening to body signals to prevent overuse - Regular rest and recovery periods

Vegan Nutrition Focus: - Careful attention to nutrient intake - Possible consultation with sports nutritionists - Supplementation as needed - Hydration emphasis

Mental Health Approach

Santiago’s consistently positive public demeanor suggests attention to mental wellness: - Positive visualization techniques - Stress management through physical activity - Community connection for support - Work-life balance between skating and business

Living Arrangements

Geographic Mobility

Santiago’s career requires living between multiple locations: - Mainland United States: For competitions, sponsor obligations, and filming - Puerto Rico: For business operations, contest organization, and family/cultural connection

This split residence reflects the dual nature of his identity and obligations—connected to both his upbringing in Massachusetts and his Puerto Rican heritage and business interests.

Home Base

While specific details of current residence are private, Santiago’s activities suggest a flexible living arrangement that accommodates: - Frequent travel to competitions - Regular trips to Puerto Rico - Access to major skateboarding hubs - Proximity to business operations

Personal Philosophy

Positivity and Persistence

Santiago’s public persona emphasizes positivity and determination: - “Manny Slays All” brand reflects confident attitude - Overcoming underprivileged upbringing through skateboarding - Persistence through injuries and career challenges - Belief in hard work and dedication

Cultural Representation

Personal philosophy includes commitment to representation: - Responsibility as Puerto Rican skateboarding pioneer - Opening doors for Latino skaters - Demonstrating diversity in professional skateboarding - Giving back through philanthropic work

Vegan Ethics

Santiago’s veganism likely reflects ethical considerations: - Concern for animal welfare - Environmental awareness - Health optimization - Alignment with values of compassion and non-violence

Community Involvement

Skateboarding Community

Santiago remains active in skateboarding community building: - Mentorship of younger skaters - Participation in skate camps and clinics - Support for local skate scenes - Industry networking and relationship maintenance

Puerto Rican Community

Through Prince of Puerto Rico and SK8HOP, Santiago maintains deep involvement: - Annual contest organization - Skate park improvements - Youth development programs - Economic contribution through business operations

Future Personal Development

As Santiago continues his professional career into his 40s, personal development may include: - Business Expansion: Growing SK8HOP and MSA brand - Philanthropic Focus: Increasing charitable work - Mentorship Role: Guiding next generation of Puerto Rican skaters - Industry Transition: Potential move into coaching, commentating, or industry management - Creative Projects: Video production, brand consulting, or other creative ventures

Balance and Perspective

Maintaining a professional skateboarding career while managing businesses and personal life requires balancing multiple demands: - Athletic performance and business management - Travel obligations and community connection - Public persona and private life - Professional ambition and personal wellness

Santiago’s sustained success suggests successful navigation of these competing demands, with his vegan lifestyle, positive attitude, and strong community connections providing a foundation for both professional achievement and personal fulfillment.

Legacy and Impact

Pioneer for Puerto Rican Skateboarding

Breaking Barriers

Manny Santiago’s most significant legacy is his role as the pioneer who proved that Puerto Rican skateboarders could compete at the highest international level. Before Santiago, no Puerto Rican skater had qualified for Street League Skateboarding, reached X Games podiums, or competed in the Olympic Games.

His historic firsts created a template for future Puerto Rican skaters: - First Puerto Rican in SLS (2013) - First Puerto Rican to win SLS events (2013) - First Puerto Rican X Games medalist (2012) - First Puerto Rican Olympic skateboarder (2020 Tokyo)

Opening Doors

Santiago’s success demonstrated that skateboarders from Puerto Rico and similar Caribbean territories could: - Access international competition opportunities - Secure major sponsorships - Build global professional careers - Represent their homeland on the world stage

This legacy continues as younger Puerto Rican skaters follow the path Santiago established, competing internationally and pursuing professional careers with the knowledge that it can be done.

Latino Representation in Skateboarding

Cultural Visibility

Santiago’s prominent position in professional skateboarding has increased Latino visibility in a sport historically dominated by white American and Brazilian athletes. His success demonstrates that: - Latino skaters can reach elite competitive levels - Cultural background is an asset, not a limitation - Spanish-speaking skaters belong in global competitions - Diverse representation strengthens skateboarding culture

Role Model Status

For young Latino skateboarders in the United States, Puerto Rico, and throughout Latin America, Santiago serves as a visible role model: - Proof that skateboarding can provide international opportunities - Example of maintaining cultural identity while pursuing global success - Demonstration of professionalism and business acumen - Representation in mainstream skateboarding media

Breaking Stereotypes

Santiago’s positive public persona—marked by his famous smile, sportsmanship, and philanthropic work—challenges negative stereotypes about Latino men and athletes. His legacy includes demonstrating that: - Competitive intensity can coexist with positivity - Professional success can drive community giving - Cultural pride enhances rather than limits career potential

Philanthropic Legacy

Prince of Puerto Rico

The annual Prince of Puerto Rico contest series represents Santiago’s most concrete philanthropic legacy:

Infrastructure Development: - Thirteen-hour skate park renovation projects - Improved facilities for Puerto Rican skaters - Demonstration of professional skaters giving back

Competition Opportunities: - Annual contest for local skaters - Added divisions for children (Coqui) and women (Princess) - Prize money and exposure for participants

Inspiration: - Shows young skaters that international careers are possible - Connects local scene to global skateboarding - Demonstrates sustainable philanthropic model

SK8HOP Development

SK8HOP distribution and retail provides lasting economic and cultural infrastructure: - Employment opportunities in Puerto Rico - Local access to professional-grade equipment - Connection between international brands and Puerto Rican market - Model for skateboarding business development in emerging markets

Competitive Legacy

Select Series Champion Legacy

As the first ever SLS Select Series Champion, Santiago established the significance of that pathway: - Proved Select Series winners could compete at highest level - Created precedent for advancement through the series - Demonstrated that non-traditional competition routes could succeed

Switch Stance Mastery

Santiago’s switch stance proficiency leaves a technical legacy: - Demonstrated competitive value of switch skating - Inspired younger skaters to develop switch abilities - Showed that technical versatility provides competitive advantage - Contributed to progression of switch stance skateboarding

Competitive Longevity

Santiago’s sustained career into his 40s establishes a model for: - Physical maintenance and injury prevention - Adaptation of skating style with age - Continued relevance in young person’s sport - Extended earning potential in professional skateboarding

Brand and Business Legacy

Manny Slays All (MSA)

The MSA brand represents Santiago’s entrepreneurial legacy:

Personal Branding Model: - Athlete-owned brand success story - Integration of personality into product line - Social media-driven brand building - Collaborations with major industry brands

Cultural Impact: - “Manny Slays All” as motivational phrase - Machete logo as recognizable symbol - Demonstration of athlete autonomy in branding

Business Pioneer

Santiago’s SK8HOP ventures demonstrate: - Professional skaters as business owners - Market development in underrepresented regions - Sustainable economic models for skateboarding communities - Integration of competition, content creation, and commerce

Style and Cultural Legacy

Positive Skateboarding Culture

Santiago’s infectious smile and positive demeanor have influenced skateboarding culture: - Demonstration that kindness and competitiveness coexist - Alternative to aggressive skateboarding personas - Joy as legitimate competitive approach - Sportsmanship as professional attribute

The Missing Tooth Iconography

Santiago’s distinctive missing tooth has become iconic: - Recognizable visual signature - Symbol of authenticity over perfection - Connection to working-class skateboarding roots - Memorable branding element

Cultural Bridge

Santiago serves as a bridge between: - Mainland US and Puerto Rican skate scenes - Latino and broader skateboarding cultures - Amateur and professional skateboarding - Traditional skateboarding and Olympic competition

Influence on Next Generation

Direct Mentorship

Through Prince of Puerto Rico and personal interactions, Santiago directly mentors younger skaters: - Providing competition opportunities - Offering advice on career development - Demonstrating professional standards - Sharing network and connections

Indirect Influence

Santiago’s career indirectly influences young skaters through: - Video parts demonstrating technical possibilities - Competition performances showing competitive strategies - Social media presence providing daily inspiration - Business success showing post-skating career paths

Representation Impact

Young Puerto Rican and Latino skaters can point to Santiago and say, “He did it, so can I.” This representation effect may be his most lasting legacy, as it continues to inspire skaters who never met him but were influenced by his example.

Historical Significance

Olympic Legacy

As one of the first skateboarders to compete in the Olympic Games (Tokyo 2020), Santiago holds a permanent place in Olympic history: - Part of skateboarding’s Olympic debut - Represented Puerto Rico in historic moment - Demonstrated that small territories could compete in Olympic skateboarding - Paved way for future Olympic skateboarders from Caribbean and Latin America

SLS Legacy

Santiago’s role in early SLS history: - First Puerto Rican in premier series - First Select Series Champion - Helped establish SLS as premier competition format - Contributed to professionalization of competitive skateboarding

Puerto Rican Sports History

In broader Puerto Rican sports context: - Added skateboarding to list of sports where Puerto Rico competes internationally - Continued tradition of Puerto Rican athletic excellence - Demonstrated that sports beyond baseball and boxing could provide international representation - Inspired consideration of skateboarding as legitimate athletic pursuit

Industry Impact

Sponsor Value Model

Santiago’s long-term sponsor relationships demonstrate: - Value of consistent, positive brand representation - Importance of athlete autonomy in personal branding - Potential for extended athlete-sponsor partnerships - ROI on supporting skaters from emerging markets

Market Development

Through his visibility and business ventures, Santiago has contributed to: - Recognition of Puerto Rico as skateboarding market - Understanding of Latino skateboarding demographics - Development of distribution infrastructure in Caribbean - Investment in skateboarding outside traditional hubs

Comparison to Predecessors

Historical Context

Santiago can be understood within lineage of skaters who expanded representation: - Predecessors like Stevie Williams expanded Black representation - Santiago expanded Latino/Puerto Rican representation - Both demonstrated that skateboarding excellence transcends geographic and cultural boundaries

Unique Contributions

While working within established traditions, Santiago made unique contributions through: - Specific focus on Puerto Rican representation - Olympic participation as Puerto Rican - Philanthropic model combining competition and infrastructure - Positive persona as professional differentiator

Future Legacy Potential

Continued Career Impact

As Santiago continues his career, his legacy will grow through: - Additional competition appearances and potential victories - Expansion of MSA brand - Growth of SK8HOP business - Increased mentorship activities

Post-Skating Legacy

When Santiago eventually transitions from professional skating, his legacy may include: - SK8HOP as ongoing business contribution - Prince of Puerto Rico as annual tradition - MSA brand as lasting cultural presence - Influence on next generation of Puerto Rican professionals

Long-Term Historical Position

Skateboarding historians will likely remember Santiago as: - Puerto Rican skateboarding pioneer - Olympic skateboarding participant - SLS champion and competitor - Philanthropic model for professional skaters - Example of career longevity and adaptation

Summary

Manny Santiago’s legacy encompasses competitive achievement, cultural representation, philanthropic work, and business innovation. As the first Puerto Rican to reach the highest levels of professional skateboarding, he opened doors that will benefit skaters for generations to come.

His combination of technical skill, competitive success, positive attitude, and community commitment provides a model for professional skateboarding that transcends mere athletic achievement. Santiago proved that professional skateboarders can be champions, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and cultural ambassadors—often simultaneously.

The infrastructure he built through Prince of Puerto Rico and SK8HOP, the example he set through his Olympic participation and SLS championships, and the inspiration he provides to young skaters from underrepresented communities constitute a lasting legacy that will influence skateboarding long after his competitive career concludes.

In the story of skateboarding’s evolution from subculture to global sport, Manny Santiago’s chapter is one of breaking barriers, building bridges, and demonstrating that the joy of skateboarding can fuel a career that benefits entire communities. His legacy is not just what he achieved personally, but what he made possible for others.