Michael Conforto’s two head coaches, Jeff Chandler and Dan Pudwill, take a trip down memory lane as they share stories from the sports seasons involving our Male Athlete of the Year.

JEFF CHANDLER, football:

“We were in a dogfight with Ballard, and at the end of the game he was not going to be denied. It was just fun to watch, he was determined that we were going to win that football game. They came to play that night and we opened the door for them, but by the end of the game he had imposed his will on the rest of the team (Redmond won, 27-20, to end the season). Just day-to-day, it’s pretty rare when a 50-plus year old adult can say they enjoyed being around an 18-year-old. He’s really grown-up for his age, he’s so mature.”

DAN PUDWILL, baseball:

“Over the three years, Michael developed greatly as a hitter. He developed a plan and understanding of what he wanted to do at the plate, he became a much tougher out. Opposing pitchers couldn’t just spin a curveball and expect Michael to swing through it. In my mind, Michael was the heart and soul of our ballclub. He was our true leader. With his actions, he practiced the right way – with energy, focus, intensity, and a desire to continually get better. He also understood that others were watching and took on that responsibility appropriately. When some people rested on their laurels, Michael never would. He was a great leader and example to the team. Michael also developed his voice over the years. He lost any fear of encouraging teammates in individual or whole team settings. He would motivate and encourage often, generating excitement and energy in the dugout.