 Mike was an outstanding athlete for Fenwick in the early years of the school. He was a starter on the football and basketball teams both his junior and senior years. (Fenwick did not have baseball as yet but his teammates say he would have excelled there too.) Senior year Mike was selected co-captain for both teams. He received the Armco Athletic award his senior year, given to the top athlete at Fenwick. His teammates still remember 'Moose' for his athleticism and toughness.
On the football team Mike played both ways. He was a hard-nosed linebacker on defense and a power running fullback for the offense. On defense he was among the leaders in tackles and played sideline to sideline. On offense Mike scored seven touchdowns his senior year, averaging over 9 yards per carry. The 1955 team had an excellent season, going 7-1 and was ranked #33 by the Associated Press State poll, Class B Division. At that time, there were only two athletic divisions in Ohio. The 1956 team posted a 5-4 record, losing a couple of close games while playing a stronger schedule which included several Class A schools.
Mike was a starting guard on the Falcons basketball team in his junior year and switched to forward in his senior year. He averaged 10 points per game for his career and was known for his hard-drives to the basket. Mike was a strong defender and was one of the leading rebounders due to his strength and aggressiveness. Fenwick finished with a 9-10 record for both the 1955 and 1956 seasons.
Upon graduation from Fenwick Mike went to work for Armco Steel. He retired from AK Steel(Armco) after over forty years of service. Mike continued his sports activities, playing basketball for the Armco Triangles team that played against UC and UD freshmen teams as well as several high-level AAU teams. He also played softball for the Knights of Columbus softball team that won a couple of state titles.
Mike has been married to Fenwick grad Marilyn Frey '58 for 54 years. They have four children: Jeff, and Todd, Betsy Abell Rossi '77, Mary Lynn Abell Bierman '80, 1998 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee. He has five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mike is a member of the Knights of Columbus and has volunteered for many years at the Fenwick Festival. He has coached youth sports and enjoys following his grandchildren's sports activities.
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