Michael participated in the Olympic Development Program (1987 age group). He began training with club at 9 years old. He was also the US Youth Soccer Regional Pool Player in 2004, he was one of the top players selected from 14 states in Midwestern US. He traveled throughout the US to play top level you sides. He played for FC United Premier from 2002-2006. While in high school he was the starting varsity goalkeeper as a freshman and was a starter all 4 years. In college, Michael was the top NCAA Division 1 goalkeeper for 3 weeks straight and was also nationally ranked in the top 25 NCAA Division 1 soccer programs for 8 weeks straight. He also had the All Time Combined GAA 1.06, which is the best in Drake history.