Manoah Leiato '26 Recruiting Profile

Hello,

I am Manoah Leiato and on June 5, 2016, I knew I was destined to play baseball at the age of 8. I made my first article in the Los Angeles Dodgers MLB.com News for the Scotts Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run and earned first place recognition and hardware in my age category on the field before a Dodger game. Since then, I have not stopped playing baseball and it's become part of my life as well as one of my greatest passions and blessings. I am a multi-sport athlete and play high school football for the Trinity League and #1 high school football program in the nation Division 1 (Tight End and Long Snapper), club volleyball and high school baseball. Baseball is my first love as far as sports and I had to quit volleyball to focus on baseball. 

My strength and what sets me apart as a baseball player is I am able adapt as a utility player. I've played every position except for catcher (primarily designated by coaches). Currently my primary positions are infield (3B and 1B), however I provide value by adapting in a position wherever the coach feels I would contribute best for the success of the team. 

Playing different sports growing up since I was 5 has taught me time management, discipline, teamwork, perseverance and most of all gratitude for the athleticism I've been blessed with. I am most thankful for my parents and their sacrificial love and support for a young boy who grew to love the game of baseball! Growing up in a Samoan (Pacific Islander) family, respect and humility are instilled in us at a young age and a character trait that I consider a blessing as these character traits help set the tone for my future as an individual and my future family, but most of all how I treat others. I am confident that my former/current teachers and coaches would agree that I have carried on these traits and 100% teachable and coachable. The athleticism and genetics run in my blood with several family members who have played sports professionally. My most challenging, but rewarding memory as an athlete was when I trained four summers as a junior lifeguard for the city of Huntington Beach from 10-14 years old. The emphasis is placed on safety, respect, physical fitness, instruction and discipline as we are schooled in oceanic environment, First Aides, C.P.R, mutual cooperation, competition techniques, and lifesaving methods. Mental toughness was definitely experienced and I miss it. I am 15 years old, 6'2 and still growing mentally and physically. 

My goal is to continue working hard these next 2 1/2 years in the classroom and excelling at a competitive level in the Trinity League to further my academic and baseball career in college. Since 6th grade (during the pandemic), I've learned to do laundry, cook and currently working on adjusting to my growth spurt while I train as an athlete. 

Outside of sports and school, I serve as the Historian for RTwelve (Bible verse Romans 12), which is a Christian service organization helping teens grow in their relationship with God while bonding with parents. I enjoy spending time with my family, watching Jeopardy, attending sports events, body surfing, the beach, traveling, golf, and making the best memories in high school. I am excited and look forward to this recruiting process through NCSA and establishing relationships that will help me prepare for college and beyond. 

Thank you for your time!

Manoah Leiato class of 2026