For two very full days you can get the authentic experience of what it is like to be a Michigan…read moreWolverine football player! My expectations were high, and the MMFE over delivered. The ENTIRE coaching staff and assistants invested their precious time attempting to prepare us wanna-be college athletes for a game. We had direct interactions with the guys we see on TV; it was surreal.
The event started with picking up your gear (jersey with name and number), autographed football, and other Michigan football swag. And then we had the first team lunch, which included Brady Hoke, Greg Mattison, Al Borges, the position coaches, and numerous great assistants. At the various meals I had the privilege of sitting next to Al Borges, Greg Mattison, Fred Jackson, Mike Hart, and accomplished alumni. Hanging around throughout the event were notable people such as Dave Brandon, Lloyd Carr, Gary Moeller, the legendary Jon Falk, Jim Brandstatter, and some former players.
And that was just the kick off! After lunch we headed to Schembechler Hall to hear from the coaches, go over the play book, and tour the facilities. Just like the players, we were moved around town in buses, and had the actual pre-game meals. Dinner was overlooking the field in Michigan Stadium in the concourse where Brady Hoke gave his first talk to the team, the team, the team. The day wrapped up with bed checks, and hot chocolate with cookies.
Day two started with a 6 AM wake up knock on the door. After another meal with the who's who in Michigan football we headed to the practice fields for position training, and our first scrimmage. After lunch we reviewed the films of our practice efforts; Coach Hoke said some of us won't be getting a scholarship. And then it was time for the big event.
Jon Falk greeted us as we entered the locker room at Michigan Stadium where we found personalized lockers with our jersey hanging. There were some teary eyes in that room, followed by nervous energy. We huddled at the tunnel with our fans cheering us, then took the field jumping up to touch a Michigan banner followed by the coaches. Just like on a real football Saturday.
After warm ups we scrimmaged for about hour. My wife took a lot of photos and videos, including my interception! As if things weren't awesome enough, after the scrimmage we were introduced individually over the public address system with our pictures on the giant scoreboards. The event wrapped up with a team photo, and a final thank you to the coaches and the event coordinators.
After spending four years with this incredible coaching staff a student-athlete's life will be enhanced in ways too valuable to measure. The coaches know football, are intense, and very entertaining. Everyone involved with this event was amazing, and true blue.
The cost of the MMFE is not inexpensive, but it is priceless!