Mike Larson

By Nathan Martinson
UWRF Sports Information

Mike Larson is the key in the middle of a vast improving Falcon defensive line.

The defense has not always played up to par this season, giving up some of big plays, but Larson feels that the defense will only improve and that will translate into some wins.

This season, Larson made the transition from linebacker to defensive tackle. He has made the transition rather quickly and it has shown on the field.

"Coach Kevin Bullis has been a very beneficial to me. He helped me make the transition to defensive line rather quickly," Larson said.

"We needed Mike to move to the line; we needed his toughness," said Bullis.

So far this season, Larson has 11 total tackles, .5 sacks and two quarterback hurries. In 2005 he started all 10 games at linebacker and he had 38 total tackles, including 20 solo.

"Since joining the football program in 2002, I have made a lot of life-long friends. Football has also kept me dedicated and well balanced in the class room," Larson said.

Larson, 6-0 240 pounds, is a bit undersized for the defensive line, but he uses his quick burst to get in the backfield and disrupt plays. "Mike has a strong work ethic in the weight room; he's a good role model for our younger players," said Bullis.

"I've learned that technique is very important when playing on the defensive line - maybe even more so then being really strong," Larson said.

Larson is the perfect definition of a student-athlete. Since his sophomore year Larson has been named to the WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll every year. "Mike brings a smart mentally to the team. He is a true scholar-athlete," said Bullis.

Larson, who went to Durand High School, was named to the all-conference team twice and the all region squad. He was the team's Top Tackler and Defensive Player of the Year in his senior season.

"My junior and senior years were really dominant. We were conference champs and state semifinalists," Larson said.

He also competed in the WIAA State track & field meet in the shot put and discus. In the classroom, he graduated with academic honors.

He is the son of Linda and Robert and is majoring in math education.

In his spare time he likes to hunt and fish. He also likes to hang out and watch movies and play in any kind of competitive sport.

Larson got his start in football in 7th grade. He got his interest in the game in part because of his parents' interest in the sport.

This season the defense has been at the forefront because of the huge plays that they have given up to their opponents. Larson feels that if they eliminate the big play then they will have a chance to win some games.

"The Stevens Point game was a good game for our defense. We played well and did not give up any big plays and we got a much needed win," Larson said.

Larson feels that the team is pointing in the right direction and thinks that the team can build off of the Stevens Point game and pick up a few more victories.

"I think we will use the momentum from this game and it will translate into some more wins for us in the future, Larson said.