This issue’s Student-Athlete Spotlight is Michael Friedman a senior on the University of Wisconsin-Stout Men’s Track and Field Team. Friedman is a food science and technology major and is from Oconto Falls, Wisconsin.
Why did you choose Stout?
I chose Stout for the small-town feel when I visited back in 2015. I came from a smaller town and loved the area of Menomonie with how much there is to see just outside of the city.
Outside of school and athletics, what are some other things you like to do?
I enjoy cooking different foods because I find it relaxing. I also like to read and drink coffee and spend time with my girlfriend and her dog!
What are a few interesting facts about yourself?
I have a couple of permanent black toenails from running, my chest hair makes a natural “X” shape, and I dislocated my thumb in 3rd grade.
Who is your favorite pro-athlete and why?
As of right now, I would say Eliud Kipchoge. He is the man who just broke the 2-hour barrier in the marathon. He is a very humble guy and lets his running do the talking, so that is something I admire.
What is your plan after college?
Right now my plan is to stick around Menomonie for a few more years. I interned at Leinenkugel’s Brewing Company this past summer and am staying in contact with them to possibly work full time. A dream of mine would be to eventually open my own brewery sometime in the future.
If you had to pick another sport to play, what would it be and why?
I used to wrestle for about 10 years growing up, so if I would not have taken up running, I probably would have done that because it was a big part of my life.
What’s your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the Multi-Purpose Room in the Fieldhouse
Favorite Food of All Time?
My favorite food of all time is probably chicken breast or frozen grapes
If you had a million dollars what are the top three things you spend it on?
Some groceries, some tickets to the 2020 Olympics, and some coffee.
What’s your favorite song right now?
STIX by nobigdyl