Jr. Runner Michael Pizzella

Name: Michael Pizzella 

Sport: Cross country

Grade: Jr.

Player’s recent performance: Came in 5th place in the Garret Invitational

Team’s recent results: Won Garret invitational 

Coach’s comment:

“[Pizzella is] our number one runner and he’s been quite a leader for [the] group of juniors that have been running together since their freshman year,” Coach John Murtaugh said. “As a leader, he’s always there to help [his teammates] and make sure everyone is doing [well].”

Expectations for the current season: 

Pizzella thinks the team can definitely win a lot, but they need to keep improving. 

Favorite track season:

“Winter track is my favorite because you get to run on indoor tracks.”

What he likes most about his sport: 

He loves the comradery and the team.

“

“He’s always been a real stand up guy in the sense that he’s always been respectful and a great listener, great leader, and great follower. He always listened to the captains in the years past. He’s more than just an athlete, he’s an incredible student.”

— Coach John Murtaugh

How he got into cross country:

“Chris Alepa, a senior last year, saw me at a middle school race, and I guess I ran pretty well that day. He said, ‘I want you to come and run cross country next year.'”

Does he follow this sport on the professional level? If so, what teams or athletes does he like?

Pizzella follows college track and one of his favorite pro runners is Morgan McDonald.

Best cross country memory: 

Winning the freshman championship

Favorite teacher: 

Ms. Jerome

Pregame meal/snacks: 

Bagel with peanut butter and banana on top

Sports superstitions:

Running in a special type of plain black shorts

Favorite pro athlete: 

Stephen Curry

One thing people may not know:

He plays guitar.

Role models: 

Parents due to their great work ethics.

Future plans: 

Wants to run in college and plans to major in law.