Michael Cross, Hamilton Heights’ senior, has signed a letter of intent to play football for the Manchester University Spartans in North Manchester, Indiana this fall. Manchester University is a member of the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC). He is the son of Bob and Traci Cross.
“Manchester’s strong sports management program was a big draw,” said Michael Cross, who plans to study sports management with the goal of working in the front office of a professional sports team. The opportunity to take his game to the next level as a member of the Spartan football team under a great collegiate coaching staff helped seal the deal. “I could see myself fitting in here for the next four years,” noted Cross, who may consider playing baseball for the Spartans as well.
Cross, a multi-sport athlete (football, basketball, baseball), said he has enjoyed playing these three sports as far back as he can remember. However, it has been football where he has found his most solid footing as a two-way player (wide receiver and defensive back). This 2017 team captain and MVP’s athleticism and contributions did not go unnoticed. Cross earned a spot on the 2017 All County Team and All Conference Second Team.
Dedication, hard work, and conditioning in the weight room the past two years as well as spending several years playing travel baseball with USAthletics helped build his strength, focus, and speed. “Heights Coaches Don Jordan and Chuck Reeves have been a major influence in helping me to develop my technique and skills on the defensive side of the ball,” said Cross, who credits his father for providing the support and guidance to help him be able to be a collegiate level student athlete.
“Michael has been a pleasure to get to know as a student/athlete at Hamilton Heights,” said Kurt Ogden, Hamilton Heights athletic director. As a three-sport athlete he has made a lot of sacrifices and commitments along the way. It has certainly been a pleasure to watch him grow and develop over the past four years and we will miss his leadership. We wish him well as he continues his football career at Manchester.”
Hamilton Heights senior, Michael Cross, has signed a letter of intent to play football for the Manchester University Spartans in North Manchester, Indiana this fall. Cross (seated) is pictured with Heights coaches’ instrumental in his development as a student athlete (l-r): Chuck Reeves, Don Jordan, Jon Kirschner, and Mitch Street, Dean of Students. (Photo provided)