Michael Dolph

Michael Dolph, a junior from Stratford, Conn., has been chosen for the focus of this installment of the “Endicott Student-Athlete Spotlight” for his works both on the field of competition, and even more important, off of it.  Michael is a Sport Management major.  We were able to catch up with the men's tennis member and asked him a few questions for our new segment.

Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
I chose to be a Division III student-athlete for two main reasons, the first is being able to focus on my studies, seeing that my mom is a teacher this was important for me, but a lot more so for her. The other is for the competition, playing a Division III sport gave me the best chance to play immediately as well as have success. 

What do you like most about being a student-athlete at Endicott?
I like how supportive the athletic department is to all of us. It is a great feeling to have a coach of another team come up to you and say great match or good game yesterday, they all seem to take an interest in all of the teams here. I feel this is something that is key to keep Endicott Athletics successful as well as improving. 

What are some of the greatest lessons you have learned from being a student-athlete?
As a tennis player it is not easy to be out on the court alone, this has taught me to always stay positive no matter if your winning or losing. I have tried to bring this into my everyday life by staying positive in everything I do no matter the situation. 

Who have been the most influence people in your athletic career?
My father, he has given me the strength, inspiration, and courage to be the athlete I am today. I know that without him I would not have been able to be a Division III student-athlete at all. My mother has also been a huge factory by being the person I have always been able to go to for support. 

How would your teammates describe you?
Hardworking, dedicated to getting better, and competitive. I try to give 100% all the time in hopes that I can get better everyday as well as getting my teammates better. 

Do you have any pre-game/pre-event rituals? If so, what are they?
I drink pedialyte before every match, hydration is important. Other than that I really just listen to music usually like to bump some Nas to get me ready to go. 

What is your greatest sports moment?
I'm hoping it hasn't come yet... 

Which public figure (athlete, politician, entertainer, etc) would you most like to meet and what one question would you ask them?
Derek Jeter. I would ask him how he managed to stay so composed and respected while playing in a media driven city like New York. 

What internships have you completed (or are a part of now)? What benefit have you gotten out of them?
I completed an internship in the athletic department at the University of New Haven. I learned a lot about Division II athletics as well as the business side of running a college athletic department.
 
If you have been involved in community service projects, what project has been the most rewarding and why?
I was involved in the special olympics in high school I volunteered at a basketball tournament as a scorekeeper. This experience taught me how important inclusion is in sport and that all people can find comfort through physical activity. 

Name three things on your "bucket list".
1. Travel out of the country (preferably Africa). 2. Swim with dolphins. 3. Win a CCC Championship. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years after graduation? What is your dream job?
I see myself having a career as an athletic director in a diverse, urban city or town. I think helping underprivileged student athletes would be a great experience. 

What would you say to someone currently in high school who is considering attending Endicott? 
Take advantage of all the opportunities in front of you and get involved in things you are interested in. Go gulls! 

Is there something about you that we don't know? Tell is something special about yourself that we haven't asked!
I am a huge Kobe Bryant fan.