Michael Bangel has long been known as one of the best professional football players not to wear an NFL uniform. Throughout his 4-year career, Michael is known to not only deliver the big hits as a defensive back, but is also an explosive kick returner and confident receiver. Without a doubt, he is a player that NFL scouts are looking for and has been on their radar for a long time. His professional experience has taken him from Japan to Panama to Spain and, it seems, everywhere in between. I had a chance to sit down with Michael in between one of his training sessions outside of Philly and ask him a couple of questions about his upcoming arena season.
Having played in Japan and seeing the culture of its athletes, what will you take from that experience and bring with you to Arena play?
“Playing in Japan was an incredible experience. Being in front of all those fans reminded me of home. Japanese players take the game very seriously and play it with a lot of passion and respect. I learned to value the game and appreciate it.” The fans there are crazy about football and they really treat you like a hero. It’s great to see how other countries and cultures approach the game. It really humbles you and makes you respect and love him even more.”
How did playing abroad change your vision of being a professional athlete?
“I’ve learned to take my job and my body very seriously; abroad there’s a lot of pressure because as a professional you’re expected to make every play. I live for that pressure so it came very naturally to me. I feel like I’m one of the best defensive backs in the world and getting the chance to prove it is a blessing. Once you get on the field, no matter where you are, it’s still football. Off the field, it’s a matter of being humble and keep working. hard and stay away from the distractions”.
It’s no secret that many teams, given their experience playing indoors and with other leagues, wanted to sign this offseason. What were some key factors that helped you make your decision?
“At this point in my career, I’m looking for an organization that is willing to do whatever it takes to win a championship. Training is a big part of any decision and I’m on the same page with the coach, it’s very important to me. “. “
What are you looking forward to the most from training camp?
“Just being around the guys, training camp is routine, but it’s where you build bonds with your teammates and find out what kind of team you’re going to have. You can also learn a little bit about the area.”
What is the best part of being a professional athlete?
“Living out a dream that I’ve had since I was a child is such a blessing and I couldn’t be more fortunate or happy to be doing what I’m doing.”
What soccer players or other athletes did you admire as a child?
“Jason Sehorn was my favorite player; as a defensive back I connected with him and was and still is a huge fan of his. My goal is to be the next Jason Sehorn.”
What do you like to do most when you are not training or playing football?
“I love to talk about business and philosophy, and if the fans want to talk about any of those topics, I’ll continue for days on end. I’m also a huge fan of music and yoga. Yoga is a huge part of my daily life.” .
What are your professional goals with soccer?
“Right now, my main goal is to win a championship, plain and simple. I don’t think too much about things that are out of my control. Obviously, the ultimate goal is to play in the NFL, but I can’t control when I get that opportunity, I can be ready when it happens.”
What advice would you give younger athletes?
“Be a leader, stand up for what’s right, and always take pride in everything you do. Don’t settle for anything less than your best effort and you will succeed.”
After knowing Michael for a while, it quickly becomes obvious that this is a man destined for greatness. It won’t be long until you see him in an NFL uniform, so be sure to keep an eye out.