Michael Bangel has long been known as one of the best non-uniform professional soccer players in the NFL. Throughout his 4-year career, Michael has been known not only to deliver great shots as a defensive back, but to also be an explosive kick returner and a sure receiver. He’s certainly a player that NFL scouts are looking for and he’s been on their radar for a long time. Her professional experience has taken her from Japan to Panama and Spain and it seems like everywhere. I had a chance to sit down with Michael between one of his training sessions outside of Philadelphia and ask him a couple of questions about his upcoming season in the arena.
After you’ve played in Japan and seen the culture of its athletes, what will you take from that experience and bring to the Arena game?
“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 over there they 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 it even more. “
How did playing abroad change your vision of being a professional athlete?
“I learned to take my work and my body very seriously; abroad there is a lot of pressure because as a professional you are expected to interpret each and every one of the plays. I live for that pressure, so for me it was very natural. I am one of the best defensive backs in the world and having the opportunity to prove it is a blessing. Once you’re 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 of distractions. “
It’s no secret that many teams, given their experience with the indoor game and with other leagues, wanted to sign this offseason. What were some of the key factors that helped you make a decision?
“At this point in my career, I am 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 am on the same page with the coach, it is 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 figure out what kind of team you’re going to have. You also learn the area a bit.”
What is the best part of being a professional athlete?
“Living a dream that I had since I was a child is a blessing and I could not have more luck or happiness doing what I am 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 he was and still is a huge fan of his. My goal is to be the next Jason Sehorn.”
What I like to do the most when not training or playing soccer
“I love talking about business and philosophy, and if fans want to talk about any of those topics, I will continue for days and days. I am 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 end goal is to play in the NFL, but I can’t control when I’ll get that chance. I can be ready when it happens. “
What advice would you give younger athletes?
“Be a leader, stand up for what is 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 the NFL uniform, so be sure to keep an eye out.