Getting To Know Michael Bangel

October 11, 2011 - Ultimate Indoor Football League (UIFL)
Danville Dragons News Release


Q: Having played in Japan and seeing the culture of their athletes, what will you take from that experience and bring with you to the Dragons?

A: Playing in Japan was an amazing experience. Being in front of all of 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 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.

Q: How did playing overseas change your view on being a professional athlete?

A: I learned to take my job and my body very seriously; overseas there is a lot of pressure because as a professional you are expected to perform every single play. I live for that pressure so for me it was very natural. I feel like I am one of the best defensive backs in the world and getting the opportunity to show it is a blessing. Once you get on the field though no matter where you are it's still football. Off the field it's a matter of staying humble and continuing to work hard and stay away from the distractions.

Q: It's no secret that many teams, given your background with the indoor game and with other leagues, wanted to sign you this off-season. What were a few key factors that made you decide on Danville?

A: At this point in my career I am looking for an organization that is willing to do what it takes to win a championship. I feel like Danville is a team that is ready for that. Coaching is a big part of any decision and I am on the same page with Coach Rogol which was very important to me.

Q: What are you looking forward to the most about training camp?

A: Just being around the guys, training camp is a grind but it's where you build bonds with your team mates and find out what kind of team you are going to have. Also get to learn the area a little bit.

Q: What is the best part of being a professional athlete?

A: Living out a dream I've had since I was a kid is a blessing and one that I couldn't be more lucky or happy to be doing what I am doing.

Q: Which football players or other athletes did you admire as a kid?

A: Jason Sehorn was my favorite player; as a defensive back I connected with him and was and still am a huge fan of his. My goal is to be the next Jason Sehorn.

Q: Favorite thing to do when not training for or playing football?

A: I love talking business and Philosophy, and if Danville fans want to talk either of the subjects I will go on for days and days so be careful!!

Q: What are your career goals with football?

A: Right now my main goal is to bring a championship to Danville, plain and simple. I don't think too much about things that are out of my control.

Q: What advice would you give to younger members of Dragons Nation?

A: 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 be successful.

Q: What message do you want to send the fans in Danville?

A: Get ready, this is going to be an exciting season and I can't wait to get up there and learn about Danville and find all the little restaurants and cool stuff that makes Danville so great!! I've heard nothing but amazing things about Danville fans with the last arena team so I am sure they are itching to get back to football.

The 2012 season for the Dragons open March 1, on the road against the Erie Explosion. On March 10, fans will have their first chance to see the Dragons at the David S. Palmer Arena in Danville as the Cincinnati Commandos visit. Ticket sales will start shortly and team merchandise is now ready for order at http://www.danvilledragons.com. Follow the team on Facebook at keyword "Danville Dragons" and on Twitter @DanvilleDragons.



Ultimate Indoor Football League Stories from October 11, 2011


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