Senior Spotlight- Michael Urankar, a Senior from Richfield, Ohio, has given his heart and soul to Christendom Athletics. Michael has played a sport every season at Christendom. In the fall Michael was a midfielder for the crusader soccer team, in winter he changed gears to be a three guard on the basketball court and then in spring he switched again becoming an outfield for the baseball team. Throughout his time at Christendom, Michael spent countless hours practicing, traveling and playing for the Crusaders. Michael has left a legacy for himself as one if the few Crusader athletes to start for three different sports teams!
Michael came to Christendom to, in his words, "Grow in my Faith and attend a small university where it was possible to have an impact on those around me." During his time as a Crusader, Michael grew in his faith through team masses and praying with his teammates before and after practices and games. Michael also impacted those around him in many ways. One specific way he impacted those around him is through his engagement to women's soccer captain, Anna Solitario. The two are getting married in June and are looking forward to a long happy life together.
When asked how Christendom has impacted his life, Michael stated, "Considering that I wanted to transfer my sophomore year and was one step away from doing so. Christendom has a unique ability to draw people to its community and its strong Catholic principles. These two aspects of Christendom have truly impacted me for the better." Michael, when asked further about the impact being a Crusader Athlete has had on his life, responded, "The athletics which I have participated in at Christendom have served as a great foundation in my life, through forming me in virtue. They have given me countless opportunities to grow in virtue and have taught me to partake in athletics primarily for the glory of God while simultaneously having the goal of victory."
Michael's favorite moments as a Crusader consist of: defeating Johnson & Wales 1-0 at home in soccer (Michael's senior year), Ian Heisler's no hitter against Williamson (Michael's sophomore year), the walk-off win against Franciscan in baseball (Michael's senior year), and defeating Davis College at home by 1pt in basketball (Michael's sophomore year).
Michael's advice to current and future Crusader Athletes is "never take any game for granted, play and treat every game like it is your last. Before you know it, you will be a senior and your career at Christendom will be over. Set goals for yourself and train in the off-season right from the start; do not put it off until later years."
Finally, when asked about any people Michael would like to thank, he said "I would like to thank Coach Heisler for having a great impact on my life as a man and also teaching me the true meaning and purpose of sports. I would like to thank Coach Quest for all the time and effort he constantly puts into the athletic programs which made all of my seasons possible, as well as the personal guidance he offered me throughout my time at Christendom. I would like to thank all of my teammates who have all helped me in different ways."
The Crusader faithful thank Michael for all that he has done and given to Christendom Athletics. Michael's passion and drive to succeed will be greatly missed.