Organizer of the NWBA’s Utah Wheelin’ Jazz team, he was an instrumental player for one of the NWBA’s greatest dynasties, California’s Casa Colina Condors. Always one of the most intelligent players on court, he defied the stereotype of the slow Class-1 player through his play, which revealed great speed and within-the-rules physicality, not to mention superb positioning on defense. Not only did Mike possess the skill level to make the big shot and to deliver the timely pass, he was usually capable of guarding any player on court owing to his intelligence, anticipation and quickness. To emphasize the degree of quickness he possessed, at one Paralympic tryout, he proved quick enough to place first in a short distance speed test ahead of some 30 of the U.S.As best players, just ahead of the super-quick Tim Kazee who is also being honored with induction into the Hall of Fame this evening.

He was a perennial all-tournament selection during the the 1980s and 1990s and earned several MVP awards. A six-time medalist at the World Championships and Paralympics, he was honored by selection to many U.S. teams and was also selected to the all-world team at the 1994 World Championships. He has won the NWBAs Captain James E. Ure Sportsmanship Award and the Golden Key Athlete of the Year Award. He was honored by the State of Utah as one of its top 50 athletes of the century. The following achievements indicate that Mike has made significant contributions in the non-competitor category as well: ” Member of the Board of Trustees for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City. ” Founder and director of a Wheelchair Sports Foundation providing sports and recreation opportunities for athletes with disabilities. ” Author of two inspirational books, Bulletproof Principles for Personal Success and Motivational Leaders. ” Life story featured in the award-winning video, If You Can’t Stand Up, Stand Out. ” Olympic torch bearer for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and Monoco placard bearer for the Opening Ceremonies. ” Member of the Board of Trustees for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City.