Sarasota Athlete of the Week: 04.13.17

Michael Cannon is a senior offensive lineman on the Booker High football team. On April 11, he signed with Garden City Community College in Kansas, the defending junior college national champions.  

How long have you been playing football?

All my life, even though I didn't like it at first. My uncle (Stephen Cannon) pushed me to get into it. 

What is the appeal of football to you now?

It's an opportunity for me to change my life and my son's (Michael Cannon III) life. 

Why do you wear No. 52?

There was another lineman here when I got here, Romello (Burke), it was his number. I looked up to him when I was in ninth grade. I wanted to play like him.

What is your favorite memory?

Winning our first playoff game my freshman year. I believe it was against Ida Baker. Marlon (Mack) caught the game-winning touchdown. That was my first playoff game starting. 

Why choose to attend Garden City?

The opportunity. They gave me a full ride, and they're the defending JUCO national champions. 

Did you play any other sports growing up?

Nope. I trained for boxing, but I never did any competitions or anything. 

Do you have a favorite food?

I do not. It's all good. My favorite type is soul food. 

What hobbies do you have?

I like to play games and hang out with my son, spend time with him. 

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

I've been given a lot. Probably just stay focused. Stick to the plan. Don't give up.

Finish this sentence: "Michael Cannon is ... "

... A terrific person. I look at myself as a good dude.