Michael Nielsen joins the SFC family after spending 20+ years in professional, college, and international sports and notably held positions with the Detroit Tigers, Toronto Blue Jays, and UC Berkeley. The majority of Michael’s experience has been in player development, with a primary focus on the operations and logistics of multiple world-class teams. He plans to bring his unique background with his love of Pinellas County to the role of General Manager of the new Sprowls Horizon Sports Park.
As General Manager, Michael oversees the daily operations of the venue. Currently building his team and developing strategies and procedures for the success of the facility’s business and cultural impact goals. Michael is passionate about building a strong and collaborative relationship with the city of Pinellas Park and its great community.
Most recently Michael was the Senior Manager – National Teams for Football Australia, where they co-hosted the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Michael spent a considerable amount of time traveling with their youth programs, beginning with the 2022 U20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica and then attending four different Asian Federation Cups (2023 U20 Men, 2023, U17 Men, 2024 Futsal, and 2024 U17 Women).
Education
- Loyola Marymount University – Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Marketing
