Athletics

Mr. Larry Rudnicki

ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

We’re building a “culture of athletic excellence” at St. Michael High School!

Through year-round opportunities to train and compete in a variety of sports, we’re increasing strength and fitness while instilling essential Christian virtues. We believe Athletics, properly and vigorously pursued, mesh seamlessly with our mission at St. Michael High School (SMHS)!

At SMHS, our coaches are considered teachers, and for many students the life lessons of Athletics, such as teamwork, fair-play, and perseverance in the face of adversity, have more immediate relevance than the more abstract insights of the classroom. As with all fields of endeavor, we strive to place Athletics in its proper context, resisting the contemporary impulse to worship at the altar of “Ball.”

We strive to model the fortitude of the saints and martyrs who endured trials and tribulations on behalf of the Gospel. We embrace Paul’s words (from 2 Timothy 4:7) that life is essentially an endurance contest: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Our (Co-ed) Alpine Skiing program just completed its third competitive season, highlighted by senior Wyatt Kolka’s 13th place Giant Slalom performance at the Division-2 State Finals! The team practices at Nubs Nob under the tutelage of experienced coaches, led by Mr. David Kolka!

Our Boys Basketball team returned to the hardwoods and, for the first-time ever, the Guardians fielded a competitive Girls Basketball team as well! Mr. Ian Provoast and Mrs. Melissa Nixon coached the respective teams through “JV schedules” this past winter, in anticipation of playing as full Varsity teams next season!

Our Boys Cross Country team just completed its best season ever! The team placed third at the Division-4 State Finals, capping off a campaign that featured seven straight winning or runner-up performances! Seniors Mac Moore & Zach Maendel led a young and high-spirited team!

Our Girls Cross Country team earned its second trip to the State Finals in its two years of existence with a surprising third-place finish at its Regional!

Our Girls Volleyball team just concluded its third season, featuring the school’s largest ladies team ever and a trip to the Mackinac Island tournament! Coach Ms. Isabella Deveau leads our program this season!

Our Boys & Girls Track and Field teams had another excellent season last spring! At the Division-4 State Finals, our Boys team finished eighth, thanks to an extraordinary 4-podium performance from senior Sam Paga and a 4th place finish for its 4×800 relay! Our Ladies team made its State Finals debut by qualifying its 4×800 relay as Regional Champs!

Our Athletic Co-ops are successful and expanding! SMHS students participate with: