For star senior quarterback Rob Michels, football has always been a way of life. While Michels’s father got him into the game of football, his mini pony coaches encouraged him to continue playing after his first season.  He has been playing for the past 11 years, which have led him to the success he displays in his game today.

Michels has been a part of the Middletown High School football program for four years; every year he has been a part of the varsity team. During his freshmen year, Michels got moved up to the varsity team for defense.

 He said, “Getting moved up as a freshman was one of my greatest memories from high school football.”

Michels other special memory from high school football was his freshmen year when the team went to the State Semi-Finals.

However, both his freshman and sophomore year, he faced the obstacle of playing time; because he was an underclassman, he did not get to play much.

 Michels says he loves the sport because “I’m good at it and I get to hit people without getting in trouble.”  Michels’ dad has been a huge support system and a driving force in his son’s football career; Michels considers him to be his role model.  “He has always taught me to speak my mind, give it my best, and never give up.”

 As team captain, Michels leads by example.  His job is to keep the team positive and disciplined and to make sure everyone has good grades.

Michels is looking to continue football after high school.  He is looking at “at least a D1 AA college.”  He is being recruited by Old Dominion, University of Richmond, West Virginia University, UCONN, and a few D2 and D3 schools such as Shepherd, Frostburg, and Salisbury.  As of right now, Old Dominion is his number one choice.

For the Homecoming game versus the North Hagerstown Hubs, the Knights will prepare by “most likely running,” Michels said. Coming off the previous loss to Linganore High School, “We’re going to stay positive and try to win for the school.”