In memory of Michael Ratzenberger

First and foremost, the Ratzenberger family asked us to pass along their gratitude for the contributions of all who supported this fund, many of whom are new to our mission and organization. They are overwhelmed by the generosity and thoughtfulness in helping to bring his vision of a Sports Biz Camp to the D.C. area. It means so much to the family that Mike will be remembered with such a tangible legacy.

In Memoriam

Mike was a bright light to all who had the privilege of meeting him. When Sports Biz Camps announced our plans to expand outside of the Charlotte area, Mike was one of the first and most enthusiastic industry professionals to raise his hand and volunteer to lead the charge for the establishment of a Washington DC chapter. His passion and enthusiasm for our mission was infectious, and he was endlessly generous with his time, knowledge, network, and resources, making himself available for everyone at any time. Mike was a special member of our SBC family, and he will be dearly missed by the entire community, his friends and family, and all of us.

In honor of his memory, Mike's family has asked that donations be made to Sports Biz Cares in lieu of flowers. We are establishing a scholarship in his honor that we will award to a young person from the DC area who embodies all that Mike stood for - authenticity, work ethic, grace and humility, passion for helping, connecting people and ideas, and forever striving to make himself and those around him better each day. We hope to work with his family to award this to a deserving applicant each year. More details to come.

Obituary

Michael K. Ratzenberger passed away on April 18, 2021. He was born on April 3, 1989, in Washington, D.C., and grew up in Vienna, VA.

There will be a Celebration of Life event in remembrance of Mike on May 17 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Money and King Funeral Home, 171 Maple Avenue W., Vienna, VA 22180. Those unable to attend in person can view a portion of the event live-streamed at 7:30 p.m and sign the family guestbook. Click HERE for link to live-stream.

Mike loved his family and friends, animals, music, and humor. His main passion was sports, and he pursued educational opportunities to have a future behind the scenes of his favorite teams. His happiest day was when he landed his dream job at Monumental Sports in Washington. D.C., where his position enabled him to explore his interests in both sports law and business.

Mike was involved in a number of charities, including Sports Biz Cares, which seeks to create career opportunities for individuals that are passionate about sports and currently underrepresented in the sports business. Mike was the market leader for Sports Biz Cares' Washington DC camps and activities, working tirelessly to connect young people from the DC Metro area to personal and professional development opportunities in sports and education.

In memory of his dedication to supporting young people, this scholarship fund will support DC-area students in their educational and career pursuits.

Mike is survived by his parents, Jim and Sheila Ratzenberger of Vienna, his sister Emily Ratzenberger McNeill and brother-in-law Aaron McNeill of Falls Church, and loving family and friends across the country, all of whom will miss him dearly.