Mike Mageles

By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

In Lake Region boys’ varsity basketball Coach J.P. Yorkey’s eyes, Mike Mageles is exactly what he likes to see in a student-athlete.

Mike is a very well-rounded person. He is a good student, accomplished athlete, and a good citizen of our school community, Coach Yorkey said.

“Mike is an honors student, who is serious and responsible in his academic pursuits. Mike manages multiple priorities well, as he is also a three-sport varsity athlete, involved in clubs, and active in his church. His organization, time management, and self-discipline are impressive traits and will carry him far in life,” Coach Yorkey said.

Mike is an accomplished athlete, who has played at the varsity level in soccer, basketball and baseball for three to four years in each.

“In each sport, Mike is dedicated, industrious (has worked hard independently to develop his skills in each sport), and a great role model for the youth of our community,” Coach Yorkey said. “LRHS has gone through some tough times academically and athletically in recent years. Despite this, Mike has been loyal to his school and conducted himself with class and pride. He consistently gives a championship effort throughout some seasons that have not been met with tremendous team success in terms of wins and losses. Mike is special in this way.”

Mike simply makes LRHS a better place to be.

“I am very, very proud of Mike. I have watched him grow and mature to become a fine, upstanding young man of character,” Coach Yorkey added. “Mike has also been playing at a very high level for the past few weeks, and is shooting the ball very well right now. He had a season-high 23 points including 6 three-pointers in our home win over Freeport.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Mike is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.”

Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Mageles File

Name: Mike Mageles

Year in School: Senior

Town: Bridgton

Parents: Chris and Mark.

School Activities/Sports: Basketball

Q. Why did you choose basketball? MM. I loved watching the game on TV. It’s a fun sport that you can walk outside and play out in your driveway at any time.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? MM. Finish out strong and win the last two games.

Q. What do you enjoy the most? MM. I enjoy being a role model for the younger kids in the community, especially the younger players on my team. I’ll always give it my all and have a positive attitude to help the team.

Q. What do you like the least? MM. The competitiveness sometimes in boys’ basketball — it gets a little unnecessary, but you don’t let it get to you and move on.

Q. What makes you successful? MM. My demeanor and will for the team to succeed.

Q. What would your dream moment be? MM. Seeing my younger teammates band together after I am gone and make Laker basketball respected again.

Q. What has basketball taught you? MM. That you meet your true brothers through sports. They are with you through it all and being close-knit as a team will really help you succeed in games.

Q. Who has inspired you? MM. My dad has always inspired me. He has always had my best interests in mind when it comes to sports. I wouldn’t be where I am without him. I can’t thank him enough.