Michael Ackerman is our June Player of the Month. Since joining the team, Ackerman has become a cornerstone of our success in both our 15 and 7 seasons, trucking over the competition. Congratulations, Michael!
Position: Lock
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 260 lbs
Year: Senior
Major: Data Science and History
Hometown: Houghton, MI
Why did you decide to play rugby?
I had grown up playing and watching football, and was looking for a similar sport to play in college. I had watched the movie “Invictus” about the 1995 Springboks, and was really intrigued by the comradery and the grit that the sport requires. I emailed Coach Trenary on my first day on campus, attended my first practice the next day, and have been hooked ever since.
What have you liked about Michigan Rugby so far?
I have really enjoyed the community. It’s been great to meet and become friends with many people, both in similar fields and completely different majors, who all share this same love for the sport. Coming from the Upper Peninsula, it was very important for me to try to meet people with different perspectives, and I feel I have had the opportunity to do that with Michigan Rugby.
Describe your most memorable moment on the field.
My most memorable moment has to be beating Notre Dame this past fall. Games against our rivals are always the most emotional, and this one came down to the wire. We were down 14 with only 15 minutes left and scored three times, including on the last play, to win 19-17. It was my first win on the first side over one of our major rivals, and was made extra sweet because my parents had made the trip from up north to be there.
What’s your most favorite rugby drill in practice? Least favorite?
My favorite drill has to be the scrum sessions. As a lock, a lot of the value I bring to the team is through the set piece and I enjoy honing that craft. My least favorite drill is the Murph.
What other sports have you played?
I have played football and basketball all my life, and threw shotput and discus in high school.
What do you see yourself doing in five years?
I’ll probably be on one of the coasts working in data science, following my girlfriend as she attends graduate school for marine biology.
What is an embarrassing childhood memory that you can share with us?
My first time on Michigan’s campus was in second grade. I was with my dad at the Beyster Building on North Campus, and tripped up the circular stairs and cut my head open. I always like to joke that it destiny that I came to UM, because I have blood on the campus.
What is your favorite place in Ann Arbor?
My favorite place in Ann Arbor has to be Wurster Park. I love the quiet being away from the center of the city, and it has a great view of campus and the stars at night.
What is your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is death of others.
What is your favorite food?
I have to go with a good steak. Always medium rare.
Do you have any game-day superstitions? Explain.
I always run my cleats through the turf when I get to the field, trying to get a feel for the grip.
Who’s your favorite superhero? Why?
Probably Superman, I love how he always holds his morals and doesn’t abuse his power despite being otherworldly strong.
What is the best advice you have ever received?One of my favorite quotes comes from Jimmy Valvano’s ESPY Speech; “Ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things.” I think a lot of people get caught up in thinking that they can’t do extraordinary things because they aren’t good enough and this quote always reminds me to push through these hurdles.
Again, congratulations to our June Player of the Month, Michael Ackerman!
