“Gritty” Nolan Michalowski, WHBHS’ star running back, leaves his heart on the field week after week and is leading the Hurricanes to a playoff spot this year.  

As one of Newsday’s leading rushers, at press time Nolan has 780 rushing yards, 265 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns for the season. His performance against Smithtown West in week 4 earned him a spot on Newsday’s “Gridiron Great” list.  He had two touchdowns and 187 rushing yards.

What makes Nolan great, according to head coach Mr. Schaum, is his passion for the game. “Nolan is a passionate player who plays very hard every game and with emotion.”

He was selected as a captain this year, Schaum said, because of “his passion, toughness, grit and leadership. You can not help but follow Nolan as a leader with him leading as an example of a tough hardnose player.” 

Michalowski is what Schaum calls a “throwback player. He plays the game as it was designed to play, he’s tough but has a bit of a nasty streak to him, in a good way.”  

About his current game Nolan said, “I think that I have just grown mentally and physically, learned the game, got better football IQ and learned to play well.” He’s hardened his skills through practice and tough games. 

A great competitor, Nolan always lays everything down for every game and pushes others to do the same.  He is looking confidently towards the post-season.  He said, “We are the best team in Division III hands down. We just need to prove it to ourselves and those who doubt us and our ability to play football.” 

He is a top player in Suffolk and is not afraid to let you know, and we can’t wait to see what he does in the playoffs.