Rocket Spotlight on...Rylee Michaels

A three-time Academic All-MAC honoree, Rylee Michaels will receive her bachelor's degree in sales with a minor in marketing this upcoming May. The Ada, Mich., native had played in 74 games (about 4,328 minutes on the field) over five years as a defender on the Toledo Women's Soccer team.

On how she began her soccer career and found herself at Toledo

I was around four years old when I started out playing soccer. I have played many sports, but I just love the competitiveness of soccer and have been involved with travel soccer for over 15 years. Two girls from the club team I was on, committed to Toledo which made me open my eyes to look here. I realized this school had a great community backbone along with a beautiful campus, so I committed to Toledo. This school and team have a special camaraderie that other places don't have.

On deciding to major in sales and her plans after graduation

I chose sales because I am an outgoing person. I love to talk to people, and I love to make people laugh. This goes to show I am a people person and I like to make others feel appreciated. Sales is a very competitive field but that is what I like to be around. I also minored in marketing because it lets me show my creative side. Currently, I am job searching and recently had an interview with a local company. I am not fully sure yet, but I might be working around the area for a little bit in the future.

On her family's support throughout her collegiate career

I am very close with my family. My parents will drive hours to a Toledo game at seven at night, then hours home after the game. They haven't missed a game. My dad played football and my mom was a cheerleader, both at Western Michigan. The Mid-American Conference has been in my family for a while, so they love to support me. My sister lives in Texas, and it was cool when she was able to come to a few games this season. I wouldn't change my family dynamic for anything. I am extremely blessed and thankful for them.

On what she will miss the most about Toledo

I wouldn't change any team for the one I had here at Toledo. I love every one of those girls. That is probably what I am going to miss the most. I also am going to miss the competition. I got enjoyment out of the grit. Another thing is you get to know everyone in the athletic community. I like that we have that community that is so close because I feel like a lot of schools don't have that nowadays. Being involved with the Student-Athlete Advocacy Committee (SAAC) for two years, it was cool to see how our athletes' programs are different from other programs and schools. It was rewarding to have a voice and speak up for other athletes.

On what she would say to future Rockets

If I could tell any future Rocket coming onto the soccer team or into athletics, I would tell them that it is a hustle and grind. There are going to be many stages of ups and downs throughout your period at Toledo. It is easier said than done, but keeping yourself motivated is very important. Remember, you are on the team for a reason. These years in college are a time to value and prove yourself. Lastly, build relationships throughout the Toledo community, because it is great.

Players Mentioned

Rylee Michaels

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