Through skill, commitment, and enthusiasm, Bruce Mandell brought the excitement of professional soccer to the capital region in no uncertain terms. Along with the excitement came a newly focused way to bring together like-minded citizens from all over to celebrate and enjoy a much-loved sport.
Bruce’s leadership, in conjunction with two partners, established the Hartford Athletic soccer club and revitalized Dillon Stadium in Hartford (now Trinity Health Stadium). By doing so he helped reinvigorate an historic landmark and reestablished a glorious place where sports lovers can come together. Recent statistics show that the team has been enjoying an average attendance of about 5,000 fans and record-breaking viewership on television.
Beyond the game itself and its increasing popularity, Bruce is involved with the nonprofit Green and Blue Foundation, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for youth and disadvantaged people in Connecticut. Over $1 million has been raised to support its mission and goals. The organization provided 15,000 tickets to children in underserved communities, hosted educational events such as the STEM & Soccer Education Day and donates thousands of pounds of food to Goals for Meals for the FoodShare program.
Bruce, president of Data-Mail, Inc., carves as much time as he can into his personal and professional schedule to assist many community organizations. He has been the vice chair of the board of trustees for the Kingswood Oxford School in West Hartford, a trustee for the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford and many other roles that demonstrate his personal commitment to the continued improvement of our communities.