Alumni Honoree
Latif Diaoune
Latif was born and raised in the Bronx to parents who had immigrated from Burkina Faso, in West Africa. Latif joined South Bronx United as a 7th grader, growing with his travel team over years, while also captaining his high school varsity team at Brooklyn Latin. He continued playing soccer at Fordham University, and graduated this May with dual degrees in sociology and general science. Melding his interests in sociology and science, he discovered a passion for public health and surgery. He has since been driven by the goal of improving healthcare outcomes both locally and internationally. As a coach in SBU's Recreational Soccer program and SBU Alumni Council member, Latif takes pride in mentoring the next generation. Alongside coaching, Latif is pursuing a post-baccalaureate program, conducting research on patient access to care for metastatic spine tumors and the health of retired NFL athletes, while preparing for the MCAT and applying to medical school. He has also completed EMT training and is considering working as an EMT to serve his community during this time. With aspirations to become an orthopedic surgeon and a global health leader, Latif hopes to make an impact in New York and across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Special Guests
Matt Freese
Matt Freese joined New York City FC in 2023 and by the end of the year had stepped into a role as the team’s starting goalkeeper. He was signed by the Philadelphia Union in 2018 to a homegrown contract, having grown up in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Mr. Freese played two years at Harvard University and has represented the United States at the Under-19 and Under-23 level including the 2020 Men’s Olympic Qualifying tournament.