MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — In his first season leading the powerful Polar Bear offense at Fairmont Senior, Gage Michael transitioned seamlessly into the starting spot. The junior quarterback accounted for 49 total touchdowns and 3,943 yards of total offense.
“I had been behind Connor Neal for the past two years. He was the Kennedy Award winner and House Award winner his senior season,” Michael said. “I have been very fortunate to play behind him. With the coaching staff we have, they were able to get me prepared. And I felt very comfortable the first game.”
Everything was going well for Michael until the regular season finale against East Fairmont. A right ankle injury hampered him for the rest of football season and ultimately cost him half of his basketball season as well.
“I could never really get back to how I wanted to. It was just a bad sprain and I fractured a little bone in it. It wasn’t a bad break or anything but it definitely affected my running ability and the whole team’s confidence knowing that I wasn’t going to be a hundred percent.”
For the third consecutive season, the Polar Bears wound up facing Bluefield. They split state championships in the previous two years. In the semifinals, the Beavers prevailed 40-24, ending the Polar Bears’ 26-game win streak.
“Losing, it sucks but it has to happen sometimes. I think that is probably one of my greatest motivators. I hate losing. I am a competitor. So I cannot wait to get back on the field and compete.”
As the Polar Bears pivot to 2020, several of Michael’s key protectors on the line have moved on, notably WVU recruit Zach Frazier. Leading receiver Cam Longwell has also moved on as well.
“Kayson Nealy will be big-time for us. He started last year and was one of my top two targets. He was only a sophomore last year and he played very well. So I am excited to get him back.”
Michael’s impressive junior season has caught the attention of a pair of Division I FCS programs. Robert Morris and Bryant have made scholarship offers.
“I have been on a bunch of Zoom calls with teams. It has been cool to get to know everybody and know the teams and the coaching staffs and for them to get to know me as well.
“I don’t really have a timetable but I would like to make a decision as fast as possible.”